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BTN Group debuts APAC business travel show

SINGAPORE, 21 March 2025: Business Travel Show Asia Pacific launches this April in Singapore, targeting buyers and suppliers in the world’s fastest-growing corporate travel market 16 to 17 April at the 2025, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.

Backed by 30 years of experience running the Business Travel Show Europe, the BTN Group debuts the same sourcing, networking and educational programme at the inaugural Asia Pacific event in  Singapore.  

The inaugural Business Travel Show Asia Pacific will draw more than 200 corporate travel buyers from the Asia Pacific region, the US, the UK, and Europe. Over 50 top-tier exhibitors — airlines, hotels, TMCs, technology providers, and ground transportation services — are participating. They include well-known travel brands  Oneworld, Wings, Wego, Amex GBT, BCD, Amex Card and Emburse.  

Hosted buyer programme

The event will provide a dynamic meeting point where buyers and suppliers from the APAC region can participate in the show’s hosted buyer programme. Senior corporate travel decision-makers will benefit from a programme that includes exclusive benefits such as free travel and accommodation, curated one-to-one meetings with suppliers and VIP access to the event across both days. 

The two-day agenda will include expert panels, workshops, and dynamic, interactive formats. The 16 free-to-attend sessions will address topics related to sustainability, traveller experience, technology, supplier sourcing, resilience, cost-cutting, and innovation. Speakers from Avis Budget Group, MSD International, IKEA, Rheinmetall, Crisis24, HN Consulting, and Align Tech will also participate in the two-day programme.  

Faceoff feature

The event will host the first-ever Business Travel Innovation Faceoff in APAC, a showcase of cutting-edge solutions set to revolutionise corporate travel. It will also host the APAC Travel Buyer of the Year Award, honouring a regional travel or meetings manager who has excelled in advancing corporate travel practices through innovation and boundary-pushing initiatives. 

Building on the 30-year success of the Business Travel Awards Europe, as well as Business Travel News’ coveted Travel Manager of the Year and Best Practitioner awards, this award will be the first of its kind presented to the APAC travel buyer community. 

The winners of the Business Travel Innovation Faceoff and the APAC Travel Buyer of the Year Award will be presented in the Knowledge Arena at 1540 on the show’s second day. 

The finalists for the Business Travel Innovation Faceoff will be announced soon, whilst the finalists for the Travel Buyer of the Year Award are confirmed: 

· Shaik Abid, International Travel Manager, Adobe 
· Cheryl Anne Neo, Regional Travel Manager, London Stock Exchange Group 
· Bianca Garrad, Corporate Contracts, Senior Specialist, Perenti Group   

Business Travel Show APAC builds on the success of Business Travel Show Europe,  held annually in London for over 30 years. Business Travel Show Europe takes place from 25 to 26 June and will be followed by the first Business Travel Show America from 15 to 16 October 2025 at the Javits Center in New York City. 

Business Travel Show APAC will run alongside The Meetings Show Asia Pacific, which was launched at Marina Bay Sands last year.

Ponant renamed Ponant Explorations Group

SINGAPORE, 21 March 2025: Ponant is embarking on a new chapter in its history, renamed Ponant Explorations Group, following its recent acquisition of a majority stake in Aqua Expeditions. 

The rebranding reflects the group’s growth strategy to build a portfolio of leading exploration voyage experiences on ships with a maximum capacity of 500 guests.

Image credits (from left to right): ©PONANT – Julien Fabro, ©STIRLING DESIGN INTERNATIONAL, ©Courtesy of Aqua Expeditions.

“As Ponant Explorations Group, we confirm our positioning and ambition,” says the group’s CEO Hervé Gastinel. “We remain true to our core identity: delivering an unparalleled travel experience to iconic destinations, providing exclusive access to confidential locations with our human-scale ships, and maintaining a commitment to excellence in service.”

“The Asia Pacific team is excited and proud to be part of this phase of strong expansion,” adds Ponant Explorations Group’s CEO Asia Pacific Deb Corbett. “We all look forward to implementing our diverse and dynamic go-to-market action plans to support the vision and growth of this portfolio.” 

The group now includes three commercial brands: Ponant Explorations, Paul Gauguin Cruises and Aqua Expeditions.

Remaining true to its heritage, the group upholds continuity in its brand identity, preserving the iconic visual elements of its signature three-sail logo. At the same time, each commercial brand has its own visual identity. 

Fuson appoints regional director to head expansion

SINGAPORE, 21 March 2025: Fusion Hotel Group has named Markus Gloor as regional director for Southeast Asia based in Thailand.

He joined Glow Hotels & Resorts in 2014 and helped establish and grow the brand until its merger with Fusion Hotel Group in 2021. 

Photo credit: Fuson Hotel Group. Markus Gloor.

Gloor has also contributed to expanding the brand in Thailand, overseeing the launch of Fusion Suites Phuket Patong and GLOW Bangkok Riverside in 2024 and ensuring the smooth operations of other GLOW Hotels and Resorts in Thailand. Until his latest promotion, he held the post of Director of Operations in Thailand.

Fusion said in a statement that it was looking to expand to new regions in Southeast Asia in 2025. In his new role, Gloor will take on the added responsibility of opening and overseeing new properties outside Thailand and Vietnam.

“As a regional director, he will oversee our properties in Thailand, working closely with owners and general managers to ensure staff satisfaction, enhancing the guest experience, and meeting business goals while driving growth in neighbouring countries,” Fusion Hotel Group Chief Operating Officer David Roberts added.

Gloor commented: “We are exploring new markets like Laos, Cambodia, Indonesia, and the Philippines as we work towards reaching 50 properties by 2028.”

Ethiopian and Etihad sign JV partnership

SINGAPORE, 21 March 2025: Ethiopian Airlines and Etihad confirmed this week the launch of a joint venture and new flights between Addis Ababa and Abu Dhabi.

The agreement signed in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, on 19 March will unlock the networks of both airlines, giving passengers seamless connections from Africa to the Middle East and Asia.

Photo credit: Ethiopian.

Etihad Airways will start nonstop flights from Abu Dhabi to Addis Ababa on 1 October, and Ethiopian Airlines will begin flights to Abu Dhabi on 15 July.

Addis Ababa is  Etihad’s 15th new destination for 2025, whereas Abu Dhabi becomes Ethiopian Airlines’ 145th global destination.

The strategic partnership includes a codeshare arrangement to improve passenger travel options across both networks.

Ethiopian Airlines will operate the new route to Abu Dhabi using its Boeing 777 and Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. Etihad Airways will operate its daily flights to Addis Ababa with A320 family aircraft.

Ethiopian Airlines will commence services from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) on 15 July.

Flight schedule

ET 614 will depart from Addis Ababa (ADD) at 0950  and arrive in Abu Dhabi (AUH) at 0310.
ET 615 will depart from Abu Dhabi (AUH) at 0425 and arrive in Addis Ababa (ADD) at 0745.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew commented: “As part of our strategy to strengthen Ethiopian Airlines’ global presence, the launch of our new flight to Abu Dhabi marks our third destination in the UAE, after Dubai and Sharjah (Cargo).”

More travel options

Travel options improve for passengers departing from major African cities served by Ethiopian flights (Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; Kampala, Uganda; Kinshasa, DR Congo; and Lusaka, Zambia).

They will be able to connect seamlessly with Etihad flights from Abu Dhabi to key cities in Asia.

(Etihad destinations in India, Japan and Southeast Asia — Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Osaka, Japan; Phuket, Thailand; and upcoming destinations, Phnom Penh, Cambodia and Hanoi, Vietnam.)

Airlines mull direct flights between India and New Zealand

MUMBAI, India, 21 March 2025: Star Alliance Partners Air New Zealand and Air India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 19 March to boost air connectivity between India and New Zealand.

The MoU signing ceremony was attended by the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Christopher Luxon, and other dignitaries at a Mumbai event.

Photo credit Air India/Air New Zealand. Prime Minister of New Zealand, Christopher Luxon (centre), presided over the airlines’ signing ceremony in Mumbai.

The MoU focused on a new codeshare partnership on 16 routes between India, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand, offering travellers more flight options between the two countries. 

Customers will now be able to travel on Air India from the Indian cities of Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai to connect in Sydney, Melbourne, or Singapore with Air New Zealand-operated flights to Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, and Queenstown.

The MoU will also see Air New Zealand and Air India explore introducing a direct service between India and New Zealand by the end of 2028, subject to new aircraft deliveries and approvals from relevant government regulators.

Air New Zealand Chief Executive Greg Foran emphasised the strategic significance of India as a future destination, highlighting its rapidly expanding tourism market and increasing travel demand.

“India represents a key growth market for Air New Zealand, and we are excited about the opportunity to enhance connectivity for travellers between our two countries. This codeshare agreement is an essential first step, offering more options for customers while we work to understand what a direct service could look like.

“Today’s event underscores the significance of the Indian travel market to New Zealand, not only for tourism but also for strengthening business and education ties. We are committed to working collaboratively to grow the market over the coming years, ensuring a strong foundation for a successful direct service by 2028,” said Foran.

Air India Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer Campbell Wilson said: “As part of Air India’s ongoing transformation, we have been expanding our global network using our aircraft and through new or expanded codeshare agreements with other airlines, chiefly our Star Alliance partners.

We are delighted to deepen our relationship with Air New Zealand, which follows the recent expansion of our codeshare partnerships with Lufthansa Group, Singapore Airlines, and All Nippon Airways. This partnership will help us develop traffic so that, in time to come, we may viably operate a nonstop service between India and New Zealand, which we and Air New Zealand have committed to explore together with the respective authorities.”

With India emerging as a growing tourism and business hub, this partnership reflects the airline’s commitment to delivering enhanced travel experiences while supporting trade, tourism, and economic growth.

Air New Zealand customers travelling between New Zealand and India benefit from strong connectivity options via Singapore Airlines, offering a smooth transit through Singapore. The prospect of a future direct route would further strengthen the relationship between the two countries, providing more efficient and accessible travel opportunities.

The MoU also outlines Tourism New Zealand’s commitment to growing inbound tourism from the Indian market. Tourism New Zealand’s research shows that 18 million people in New Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai are actively considering travelling to New Zealand, making it a key emerging market. More than 80,000 international travellers arrived from India last year, 23% more than in 2019.

The long-term growth potential is significant, with India earmarked as one of the fastest-growing outbound travel markets. Indian travellers want to explore New Zealand’s vibrant landscapes, film sets and rich cultural opportunities.

Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive Rene de Monchy said: “It’s fantastic to see Air New Zealand and Air India working on stronger international connectivity between the two countries. We know improved aviation links have a crucial role in the growth of global tourism and will make it easier for Indian travellers to come and enjoy a holiday in New Zealand.”

(Source: Air New Zealand and Air India Communications)

Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives offers introductory perks

BANGKOK 20 March 2025: Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, is celebrating the upcoming launch of Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives with an exclusive introductory offer. 

Opening in April 2025, guests are invited to experience this tranquil island retreat with special privileges and premium benefits, including Stay 4, Pay 3 and Stay 7, Pay 5 packages, upgrades, and more, for a limited time only.

Representing the final piece in Centara’s vision of offering extraordinary experiences across four distinctive properties in the Maldives, each catering to unique traveller preferences, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives features 142 elegantly designed beachfront and overwater accommodations that perfectly complement the natural beauty of the surroundings. This private island sanctuary seamlessly blends Thai-inspired hospitality with Maldivian allure, inviting guests to indulge in world-class dining across multiple restaurants and bars and experience rejuvenating wellness journeys at the serene Spa Cenvaree Retreat.

The opening of this stunning property also signifies the completion of The Atollia by Centara Hotels & Resorts, a visionary project set to redefine experiential travel in this breathtaking destination. As part of this exclusive multi-island destination, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives blends sophisticated tranquillity with immersive experiences, catering to discerning travellers seeking a refined escape while also granting guests unprecedented access to the thrilling water attractions and vibrant facilities of neighbouring Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives.

“We are thrilled to officially welcome guests to Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives this April,” said Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives & Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives Cluster General Manager Andrew Jansson.

“From our picturesque beachfront and overwater villas to our exquisite dining and holistic wellness journeys, our team has worked tirelessly to ensure every aspect of this magnificent property exceeds expectations. We look forward to offering travellers a truly distinctive experience that captures the essence of both Centara’s signature warm hospitality and the beauty of this Maldivian paradise.”

To celebrate the grand opening, Centara invites guests to take advantage of its Grand Island Indulgence: Exclusive Introductory Offer. Book until 30 June 2025 for stays between 1 April and 15 October 2025 and enjoy the privilege of staying 4 nights while only paying for 3, or extend your escape with Stay 7, Pay 5. This offer also includes meal plan upgrades, complimentary champagne and couples’ massages, exclusive access to The Club, a choice of an ocean excursion, plus extra perks for CentaraThe1 members and more.

For more information about Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives or to make a reservation, visit https://www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centaragrand/cglm/introductoryoffer

About Centara 
Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 90 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Vietnam, Laos, China, Japan, Oman, Qatar, Turkey and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, The Centara Collection, Centara Grand, Centara, Centara Life and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxury island retreats and upscale family resorts to affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology.  Find out more about Centara at www.CentaraHotelsResorts.com

Phuket’s property projects under pressure

PHUKET, 20 March 2025: April signals Phuket’s tourism season is winding down, and Phuket property professionals are asking, “What’s next?”

C9 Hotelworks’ latest Phuket Property Trends and Data Insights report warns the “pressure is on for Thai-listed developers from Bangkok to demonstrate income growth, as the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) continues to decelerate.”

Bill Barnett examines the latest property trends in this C9 Hotelworks Insights report.

Top Bangkok-based groups currently active in the Phuket market include One Origin, Sansiri, AssetWise, Siamese Asset, Ananda, Land and Houses, Charn Issara, and others. These developers are focusing on two specific tiers of projects aimed at foreign buyers. The first is small, entry-level, mass-market condominiums, while the second targets the upper end of the market with luxury single-family homes.

Another emerging trend is the development of larger, mixed-use projects in inland areas of Phuket Island that are lifestyle-focused and cater to end-users or investors seeking recurring rental yields. A significant shift in the market is the rise of hybrid developments, where large-scale land is subdivided into micro-projects in collaboration with other developers.

One notable example is Ananda’s Mira Valley, which is partnering with Mono and the growing Punyisa brand. Together, they are populating this larger community with specialised developers who offer niche products but are attracted to the concept of a large integrated living complex. We expect to see more hybrid developments and more custom-built lots, signalling a departure from the many cookie-cutter mass housing projects currently available.

C9 Hotelworks has compiled rental data for 2024 from Thailand’s leading property portal, Fazwaz.com. With thousands of transactions analysed, here are the key highlights focusing on the rental segment:

In Bangkok, 89% of online rentals are long-term, and 94% are condominiums rather than houses. Demand for one-bedroom units makes up nearly half of the market, followed by two-bedroom units at 25%. The top three nationalities of renters are Thai, US, and UK.

Looking at the transaction market, average sales prices have shifted due to the resale of older, larger units with higher absolute prices, despite an influx of smaller, entry-level, lower-priced units.

In Phuket, the secondary market is growing, and single transaction prices have decreased by 20-25% due to a combination of resales and smaller, more affordable condominiums.

On the island, 54% of rentals are long-term, with a slightly higher proportion of houses than condominiums. One-bedroom units are in high demand for condominiums, while three-bedroom units are the most sought-after for dwellings. The top three nationalities of renters are Russian, UK, and US, with Thais emerging as a growing segment.
For more information, visit https://c9hotelworks.com/

Tripadvisor Group names new Viator lead team

SINGAPORE, 20 March 2025: Tripadvisor Inc has announced leadership changes for Viator, a global travel experiences marketplace. 

Pepijn Rijvers has been appointed President of Viator, effective 1 April 1, and Kristin Dorsett has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer.  

Rijvers will report to Matt Goldberg, President and CEO of Tripadvisor Group, and Dorsett will report to Rijvers.

“Experiences are central to the group’s strategy, and Viator has strong momentum as the leader in this fast-growing category,” said Tripadvisor Group President and CEO Matt Goldberg. “Pepijn’s deep industry expertise, proven success in scaling marketplaces, and background across product, supply, marketing, and data make him the ideal leader to advance our group-wide experiences strategy. With Viator leading the way, we’ll continue strengthening our position in the category and delivering even greater value to travellers and partners.”

Rijvers takes on the role of President of Viator as Tripadvisor Group sharpens its focus on experiences following a year of healthy growth and profitability at Viator. 

“This category  (experiences) is transforming – moving from a fragmented offline past to a seamless online future,” said Rijvers. “Viator is in a prime position to lead that shift, powered by an exceptional team, the world’s biggest and best collection of experiences, and the unique strengths of the Tripadvisor Group. I look forward to leveraging this momentum to cement our position as a global leader in the space.”

Before joining Viator, Rijvers spent over 12 years at Booking.com, where he played a key role in building and scaling the travel industry’s largest accommodations marketplace. 

Kristin Dorsett has been promoted to the role of Viator’s Chief Operating Officer. A longtime Viator executive, she has led multiple parts of Viator’s supply and technology organisations. Most recently, as Chief Product Officer, she was responsible for the company’s product, engineering, and data functions, driving innovation and operational excellence across the platform. In this new role, Dorsett will focus on strategy execution and operational excellence across the broader Viator business.

Following years of strong growth, Viator reported USD840 million in revenue, approximately USD4.2 billion in gross bookings value, and full-year profitability in 2024. 

Viator lists approximately 400,000 experiences worldwide, works with more than 65,000 operators, and powers the experiences storefronts of thousands of websites, including some of the biggest names in travel. 

Where to enjoy savings on summer stays

BANGKOK, 20 March 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda has unveiled its list of the most affordable destinations for summer travel in April and May 2025.

Phong Nha, Vietnam, tops the list with an average room rate of just THB950 per night, making it ideal for those seeking adventure and natural beauty this summer. Hat Yai, a town in southern Thailand, is the cheapest destination this summer, ranking third among Asia’s most affordable destinations.

Phong Nha is joined in the top three by Tirupati, India, and Hat Yai, Thailand, with average room rates of THB1,145 and THB1,345 per night, respectively. These destinations provide a mix of cultural, culinary, and scenic experiences, perfect for summer getaways. Hat Yai is the cheapest destination in Thailand for stays in April and May.

The Cheapest Summer Destinations ranking is based on average room rates in the twenty most popular destinations across nine Asian markets, offering Thai travellers a snapshot of affordable options this summer.

Phong Nha, Vietnam (THB950)

Known for its breathtaking caves and lush landscapes, Phong Nha is a haven for nature lovers. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, home to some of the world’s largest caves, or enjoy a tranquil boat ride along the Son River. The area also offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, and immersing in local culture.

Tirupati, India (THB1,145)

Tirupati is home to the famous Venkateswara Temple, one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the world, renowned for its Tirupati laddu, a unique sweet offering with deep cultural and religious significance. Beyond its spiritual appeal, the city offers a rich cultural experience with vibrant festivals, traditional music, and delicious South Indian cuisine. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions like the serene Talakona Waterfalls, the lush Sri Venkateswara National Park, and the historic Chandragiri Fort, adding both natural beauty and historical depth to their journey.

Hat Yai, Thailand (THB1,345)

Hat Yai ranked top in Agoda’s Cheapest Christmas Destinations and holds on to a podium place in the traditionally popular Summer months when Thailand celebrates Songkran and other holidays. The city is known for its many markets and tasty street food, and it also serves as a gateway to nearby beaches and islands, making it a versatile summer destination.

Padang, Indonesia (THB1,345)

Famous for its culinary heritage, Padang is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering iconic dishes like Rendang and Sate Padang. Visitors can also explore its stunning beaches, such as Air Manis Beach, or take a short trip to the Mentawai Islands for surfing and snorkelling. The city’s rich history and cultural landmarks add to its charm.

Bacolod, Philippines (THB1,545)

Known as the “City of Smiles,” Bacolod offers a warm welcome and a laid-back vibe. Travellers can explore historical landmarks like The Ruins, a grand mansion from the early 1900s, or enjoy the city’s mouthwatering food scene, including its famous chicken inasal. Bacolod’s friendly locals and colourful festivals make it a delightful summer destination.

Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia (THB1,600)

Kuala Terengganu is a coastal gem that boasts beautiful beaches, traditional crafts, and lively markets. Visitors can explore the city’s iconic Crystal Mosque or ride to the nearby Redang Island for snorkelling and diving. The city’s rich cultural heritage, including its batik-making traditions, offers a unique experience for travellers.

Gimpo, South Korea (THB2,200)

Located near Seoul, Gimpo offers a quieter alternative with scenic parks and cultural sites. Visitors can look around the National Aviation Museum or explore the Gimpo Sculpture Park. The city’s beautiful natural scenery, including the Munsu Mountain and the Han River, makes it an excellent destination for a peaceful appreciation of South Korea’s springtime beauty and cherry blossoms.

Narita, Japan (THB2,390)

Beyond its Tokyo-servicing airport, Narita is a charming city with historic temples and picturesque gardens. Visitors can explore Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, a centuries-old Buddhist temple surrounded by tranquil grounds. Spring travellers can also enjoy cherry blossoms at Naritasan Park and sample local delicacies like unagi (grilled eel).

Pingtung, Taiwan (THB2,660)

Pingtung is a gateway to Taiwan’s southern beauty, offering beaches, night markets, and a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore Kenting National Park, known for its dramatic coastal scenery and outdoor activities. The city’s markets and local cuisine provide a taste of Taiwan’s unique flavours.

Lady Gaga sends hotels searches crazy

SINGAPORE, 20 March 2025: American pop star Lady Gaga is set to return to Singapore after 13 years to perform four shows in Singapore this May — her only Asian stop for her latest world tour.  

The latest search data* from Booking.com, a global digital travel platform, revealed a 14% increase in accommodation searches for Singapore following the announcement of Lady Gaga’s tour stop in Singapore. 

The data illustrated how concert tourism and the Lady Gaga effect is shaping global travel patterns and reinforcing Singapore’s reputation as a top-tier entertainment and lifestyle hub in the region as such one-in-a-lifetime experiences continue to attract fans across the world. 

Key highlights 

The increase in interest is mainly driven by travellers within the APAC region, except the UK, coming in 4th across all markets globally. 

Visitors from Australia showed the largest increase in accommodation searches (around 14%) as compared to 2024. 

This effect is not limited to international visitors. Singaporeans also contributed to a close to 10% increase in accommodation searches during this period.  

Top 5 global markets that searched for Singapore as a destination during Lady Gaga’s world tour in Singapore (16-26 May 2025)

*Methodology: This is based on Singapore travel searches made on Booking.com between 10 to 14 March 2025, with check-in dates from 16 to 26 May 2025.