Travel Aggregator (February 2019)

FEB 2019

APAC Newsletter

WIN! 3D2N stay at Hotel Indigo Phuket Patong --------------------------------2D1N stay at Citadines Shinjuku Tokyo

Discover these perfect getaways for Valentine’s Day ~ Page 8

Top spots to catch the Sakura season

Highlights of the Swiss VIP Fam Trip

~ Page 18

~ Page 26

FOREWORD

WEBBEDS ASIA PACIFIC DARYL LEE CEO Daryl.Lee@webbeds.com SUN KOK SHENG CCO Koksheng.Sun@webbeds.com CYNDI NG COO Cyndi.Ng@webbeds.com KEVIN KHOR Vice President, Marketing Kevin.Khor@webbeds.com EILEEN TOK Vice President, Commercial Technology Eileen.Tok@webbeds.com JINTANA PORNTANAPAT General Manager, Thailand and Indo-China Jintana.P@dotw.com

FOREWORD Welcome to February’s edition of Travel Aggregator – WebBeds’ monthly newsletter dedicated to the travel trade in Asia Pacific!

In this issue, we celebrate the season of love with a Valentine’s Day special featuring the best Asian destinations for a romantic break. Then looking ahead to spring, we highlight the top spots to witness the magic of “sakura”, the spectacular annual cherry blossom season.

Moving from elegant pink flowers to bright neon lights, we showcase the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas with our weekend guide to this vibrant US city. Closer to home, you can learn more about the “Banyan Tree Experience” in Asia and discover the newly-opened Hotel Indigo Phuket Patong, including the chance to win a free stay!

Finally, we’ll bring you right up to date with the latest news from WebBeds, including our revamped FIT Rewards programme and the exciting launch of the OPP Alliance.

VINCENT LEUNG Managing Director, Hong Kong, Philippines & Japan Vincent.Leung@fitruums.com JENNY FU General Manager, China Jenny.Fu@jactravel.com LINDA KIM General Manager, South Korea Linda.Kim@fitruums.com JOSEPH SHIH General Manager, Taiwan Joseph.Shih@fitruums.com ASHUTOSH DOGRA General Manager, India Ashutosh.Dogra@fitruums.com JOHN STUCCI President, Pacific John.Stucci@fitruums.com

Enjoy the read!

Daryl Lee CEO of WebBeds Asia Pacific

@WebBedsAPAC

To catch up on any past editions of Travel Aggregator, simply head to attractions.fitruums.com/aggregator

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 updates from WebBeds Asia Pacific, including our news and developments, plus exciting offers from our partners, a selection of the hottest hotel deals, and much more!

If you’d like to be featured in the next issue of Travel Aggregator, please email Travel.Aggregator@ fitruums.com. Alternatively, for marketing partnerships with WebBeds Asia Pacific, please email marketing@fitruums.com.

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Cover image courtesy of Rayavadee Krabi

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NEW YEAR GLITZ ON THE LAS VEGAS STRIP

New Year Glitz on the Las Vegas Strip The festive season may be over, but that doesn’t mean the celebrations have to end! In Las Vegas, the fun continues all year round with an array of glitzy and glamorous activities. So gather your friends, put on your party shoes and get ready for a night to remember on the Las Vegas Strip!

To banish the New Year blues, simply follow our fourstep guide to a great night out in Las Vegas…

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- 1 Happy hour “Inside The Chandelier”

- 2 Catch Lady Gaga’s Enigma show

The Chandelier Lounge is a multi-level visual

Lady Gaga kicked off her Las Vegas residency

wonder at The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas. For

in December and guests can now experience

the most memorable start to your evening,

the magic and wonder of her Enigma show

step “Inside The Chandelier” on Level 1.5

throughout 2019. Hosted at the Park Theater,

and discover a high-energy venue which

Park MGM Las Vegas, this dazzling pop

is actually housed within a giant crystal

performance is proving to be the hottest

chandelier!

ticket in town!

NEW YEAR GLITZ ON THE LAS VEGAS STRIP

- 3 Take a ride in the High Roller

- 4 Watch the dancing fountains of The Bellagio

Rising 167.6 metres from the Las Vegas

No visit to Vegas is complete without

Strip, the High Roller is the world’s tallest

watching the dancing fountains of The

observation wheel. Take a 30-minute ride

Bellagio. Every 30 minutes until 8pm, these

for unsurpassed views of the entire city and

iconic water features dance to an enchanting

the shimmering deserts beyond. At night,

concert of opera, classical, Broadway and

the wheel is illuminated 2,000 LED lights,

pop tunes – and the best part is that it’s

creating a dazzling display.

absolutely free!

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H O T E L I N D I G O P H U K E T PAT O N G

WIN! 3D2N stay at Hotel Indigo Phuket Patong worth up to THB9,000

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H O T E L I N D I G O P H U K E T PAT O N G

Hotel Indigo Phuket Patong Located in the heart of Phuket’s most vibrant tourist district, Hotel Indigo Phuket Patong is a stylish boutique hotel that blends contemporary design and international amenities with local heritage and authentic experiences.

The 180 rooms depict images of tropical forests, neon lights and fishing villages, alongside worldclass amenities and complimentary Wi-Fi. The eclectic ambiance is also reflected in the hotel’s facilities, which include a spectacular rooftop pool and a Thai boxing ring! The Butcher’s Garden specialises in fresh meat and seafood, while live music and craft beers can be enjoyed at Pots, Pints & Tikis. The hotel is also home to a “secret” venue which guests are only told about when they arrive.

Finally, event planners can choose from a series of meeting rooms.

In a popular resort island like Phuket, Hotel Indigo Phuket Patong reconnects guests to the true essence of their destination. Read more about this property and stand to win a 2-night stay by answering a simple quiz HERE!

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Asian Love Affair: Discover Your Perfect Valentine’s Day Getaway Valentine’s Day is a wonderful time of year when couples can celebrate their love for each other and bask in the warm glow of romance. But not all couples are alike; while many do enjoy surrounding themselves with rose petals, Champagne and chocolate hearts, others prefer to find less traditional ways to express their affection. One sure-fire way to fan the flames of romance however, is through travel.

Ernest Hemingway once said that you must “never go on trips with anyone you do not love”. Travel itself is romantic, and to be able to share your experiences with the person you love is the greatest pleasure of all.

This makes Valentine’s Day the ideal time for couples to take a trip together, and no matter what type of adventure puts the spark in your relationship, it can be found in Asia.

From off-the-beaten-track experiences to fast-paced urban excitement and blissful beachfront relaxation, this exotic region provides the perfect choice for your Valentine’s vacation.

M O U N T BAT U R , BA L I

The Adventurous Admirers WHERE TO GO

Mount Batur, Bali

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For adventurous admirers, there can be no more

hour trek to the caldera, which sits 1,717 metres

romantic way to spend 14th February than taking

above sea-level, couples can cuddle up and enjoy

a sunrise climb to the top of Mount Batur – Bali’s

breath-taking views of the “Island of the Gods” and

smoking hot volcano. Following a strenuous two-

the glistening ocean beyond.

THE MULIA

WHERE TO STAY

The Mulia Overlooking Nusa Dua Bay, The Mulia is a luxurious

occasion, including a romantic Valentine’s Buffet

all-suite hotel that provides plenty of space for

Dinner at The Café for just US$50 net per person!

couples to indulge in each other’s company. Enjoy

Recently-married WebBeds guests will enjoy special

exhilarating beachfront activities such as sea-

honeymoon treats, including free chocolates upon

kayaking and paddle-boarding, or simply chill

arrival or a bottle of sparkling wine and chocolates

out in the stunning pools, private cabanas and

for guests booking a Royal Suite or above.

spa. The 11 F&B outlets provide options for every

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PHRANANG BEACH, KRABI

The Beach Sweethearts WHERE TO GO

Phranang Beach, Krabi

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Beach lovers can discover their personal paradise

The sands are powder-soft, the seas crystal clear,

at Phranang Beach, in Thailand’s Krabi province.

and the beach is backed by dramatic limestone

This blissfully secluded stretch of sand can only be

cliffs. Simply lie back, relax and soak up the tropical

reached by long-tail boat, giving it an exclusive feel.

scenery with your precious partner.

R A Y A VA D E E

WHERE TO STAY

Rayavadee Nestled on the Phranang Peninsula, overlooking

sandy shoreline, and unforgettable evening meals

the Andaman Sea, Rayavadee is a stunning

can be enjoyed on the spectacular seafront or in

luxury resort that blends perfectly into its tropical

The Grotto, an alfresco dining destination set in a

surroundings. The 101 two-storey pavilions and pool

dramatic limestone cave.

villas put beach lovers just a stone’s throw from the

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NAMI ISLAND, SOUTH KOREA

The Fairytale Lovers WHERE TO GO

Nami Island, South Korea Winter Sonata was one of South Korea’s most

a tour of Winter Sonata’s most iconic sites. Strolling

cherished romantic dramas. This famous TV show

arm in arm along the beautiful boulevard of soaring

was primarily filmed on Namiseom, an island in

pine trees will make memories for couples to

the North Han River just outside Seoul, and visitors

cherish forever.

can follow in the footsteps of the show’s stars with

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C R O W N PA R K H O T E L , S E O U L

WHERE TO STAY

Crown Park Hotel, Seoul Couples can recreate their own Winter Sonata

lounge. This makes the hotel a wonderfully cosy

at Crown Park Hotel, which puts guests in the

place to stay warm during Seoul’s cool winters.

beating heart of Myeong-dong, Seoul’s vibrant

On Valentine’s Day, WebBeds guests can enjoy

shopping and tourism district. The soaring 17th

an evening of personal pampering with two

floor lobby creates a fantastic first impression, and

complimentary face mask packs from Leaders, the

romantic evenings can be enjoyed at The Park

premium South Korean cosmetics company.

Dining restaurant or The Park Library, the trendy

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G A R D E N S B Y T H E B A Y, S I N G A P O R E

The City Explorers WHERE TO GO

Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

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The movie Crazy Rich Asians had a huge cultural

Forest”, the spectacular Gardens by the Bay are one

impact and inspired countless fans to visit the

of the world’s most romantic destinations. Whether

urban attractions of Singapore. Home to the

you are a Rachel or a Nick, you will surely find love

thousands of flowers, secret gardens and a “Cloud

in this heart-stirring urban oasis.

MARINA MANDARIN SINGAPORE

WHERE TO STAY

Marina Mandarin Singapore Marina Mandarin Singapore is the ideal place

panoramic views of the city and Marina Bay from

for urban explorers to feel the buzz of the city.

each of the 575 rooms and suites. Plunge into

Perfectly positioned in downtown Singapore, close

the mineral water pool, be pampered at the

to the Gardens by the Bay, this award-winning

Estheva spa, or enjoy world-class Cantonese

hotel exudes Asian Grace, Warmth, and Care with

cuisine at Peach Blossoms, which is featured in the Michelin Guide.

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Cherry Blossom in Asia Cherry blossom is one of nature’s most dazzling displays. Every spring, swathes of north Asia are bathed in the beautiful pale pink hues of “sakura”, the traditional Japanese name for this exquisite annual spectacle.

These delicate flowers come into bloom in March and April every year, but their appearance signifies more than simply the onset of spring; they also represent hope, destiny and renewal, and are a defining symbol of Asian grace and elegance. The practice of viewing cherry blossom dates back centuries and even has its own name, “hanami”, with special annual festivals dedicated to these ethereal pastel-pink blooms.

But the spectacular blossoms are not only found in Japan; cherry, plum and peach trees are prevalent all across Asia’s northern temperate regions, including China and South Korea. Here is WebBeds’ guide to the sakura season, as we reveal the best Asian destinations to discover this natural springtime phenomenon:

TOKYO

WHERE TO GO

Tokyo, Japan Hanami Festivals are believed to originate from

was considered to be one of the most important

Japan’s Imperial Palace and Tokyo remains a

gardens of the Meiji era. Just a short walk from

wonderful place to experience the magic of

Shinjuku Station, this park is home to hundreds of

sakura. Nestled in the heart of the city, Shinjuku

cherry trees which bloom in the spring, creating a

Gyoen National Garden dates from 1906 and

breath-taking spectacle. Don’t miss out the best time to catch the full bloom in early April.

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C I TA D I N E S S H I N J U K U T O K YO

WIN! 2D1N stay at Citadines Shinjuku Tokyo

WHERE TO STAY

Citadines Shinjuku Tokyo Citadines Shinjuku Tokyo is located within

Wi-Fi, allows guests to stay in style and comfort,

walking distance of Shinjuku Gyoen, providing

while the fitness centre and residents’ lounge

the perfect place for cherry blossom sightseers.

provide options for relaxation. Read more about

A choice of apartment-style studio rooms, all

this property and stand to win a 1-night stay by

featuring comfortable beds, kitchen amenities and

answering a simple quiz HERE!

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JEJU ISLAND

WHERE TO GO

Jeju Island, South Korea

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On Jeju, South Korea’s UNESCO World Heritage-

blossom festival is held at Jeonnong-ro every year,

listed island, Jeonnong-ro is an exceptional place

as the falling flowers form a soft pink carpet along

to experience the beauty of cherry blossom.

the road. The street is especially attractive when

Nestled in Jeju’s main urban area, “Cherry Blossom

illuminated at night and the beautiful blossoms can

Road” is lined with century-old cherry trees that

be seen for weeks, from late March to the second

create a stunning springtime spectacle. A cherry

week of April.

HOTEL SUMORUM

WHERE TO STAY

Hotel Sumorum Nestled on Jeju’s south coast, Hotel Sumorum

to Jeonnong-ro, this a wonderful place to stay and

features a unique fan-shaped exterior that

soak up Jeju’s serene seafront ambience. Guests can

reflects the grace and charm of Korea’s cherry

unwind in an outdoor pool, kid’s pool and Jacuzzi,

blossom. Although the hotel is not located close

or dine at the excellent restaurant.

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WUHAN

WHERE TO GO

Wuhan, China

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Wuhan is the capital of Hubei province and one of

round but it truly blooms in the springtime, when

China’s most dynamic cities. It is also blessed with

the cherry, plum and peach trees cast an elegant

many natural scenic areas, the largest of which is

pink glow across the gardens. Guests should head

East Lake Park, which covers a staggering 73 square

to the Mo Hill Scenic Area from late March to early

kilometres. East Lake Park is impressive all-year-

April for the most dramatic visual spectacle.

O P T I C S VA L L E Y K I N G D O M P L A Z A W U H A N

WHERE TO STAY

Optics Valley Kingdom Plaza Wuhan Positioned on the fringes of East Lake Park,

upscale hotel features 368 opulently furnished

overlooking the lake, Optics Valley Kingdom

rooms and suites, plus a wide range of facilities

Plaza Wuhan is a great base for guests who want

including an indoor swimming pool, sauna, karaoke

to explore this urban oasis. Rising 18 storeys, this

room, exercise area and games room.

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W E B B E D S W I N T E R W O N D E R L A N D I N S W I T Z E R L A N D V I P FA M T R I P

WebBeds Winter Wonderland in Switzerland VIP FAM Trip WebBeds and Switzerland Tourism were delighted

The winning agents were treated to an exclusive

to host a once-in-a-lifetime fam trip to Switzerland

chocolate-making workshop in Interlaken, a scenic

for six top Asian travel agents, following the

lunch while cruising on a steam boat on Lake Thun,

conclusion of our “Summertime Experiences”

a magical stroll through the Christmas markets

campaign in Asia.

in Lausanne and Montreux, a visit to The Olympic Museum, and more!

The “WebBeds Winter Wonderland in Switzerland” fam trip, which took place from 7-14 December

Here are some of the highlights of this

2018, invited the winning agents to experience

unforgettable trip. Thanks to Switzerland Tourism

the many wonders of Switzerland. This exciting

for being such a wonderful host and to everyone for

educational adventure included return flights

making this fam trip possible.

to and from Zurich with SWISS, an array of breath-taking Alpine activities and a series of memorable experiences that showcased the best of Switzerland.

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W E B B E D S W I N T E R W O N D E R L A N D I N S W I T Z E R L A N D V I P FA M T R I P

Award ceremony with Webjet Limited’s Managing Director, Mr John Guscic and Switzerland Tourism’s CEO, Mr. Martin Nydegger.

At the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, where everyone’s a winner!

Braving the cold, at the Top of Europe!

Spotted Santa Claus and Freddie Mercury while at the Christmas markets in Montreux.

Connie and Janemuel enjoying the snowy scenery while on the train to Jungfrau.

The group enjoying a Chocolate Making Class at Interlaken.

Taking a break against the beautiful skyline of Zurich.

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Banyan Tree Experience For 25 years, guests have enjoyed luxurious, ecological and culturally-sensitive stays with Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts. This signature “Banyan Tree Experience” has been cultivated with discreet service and world-class facilities across four distinct brands — Banyan Tree, Angsana, Cassia and Dhawa — and expanded to farflung destinations across the world.

From the company’s humble beginnings in 1994, Banyan Tree has grown to become a global company.

But it has managed to retain its authentic charm and signature local hospitality, wherever in the world guests choose to travel. This is helped by having a diverse team of associates representing more than 50 different nationalities.

With many exquisite hotels and resorts in the pipeline, even more guests will be able to savour the Banyan Tree Experience in the years to come.

B A N YA N T R E E U N G A S A N , B A L I

Banyan Tree Ungasan, Bali Discover an authentic Balinese experience with rich cultural heritage, traditional villages, tropical forests and uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean. Banyan Tree Ungasan sits 70 metres above sea-level on the southern tip of Bali, close to the famed Uluwatu Temple. Blissfully secluded yet easily accessible, this luxurious all-pool villa resort enables guests to escape the stress and strain of everyday life and find their own private sanctuary of peace relaxation. Rejuvenation can be found at the Banyan Tree Spa, with its range of signature Asian and Balinese therapies.

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B A N YA N T R E E U N G A S A N , B A L I

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B A N YA N T R E E B A N G K O K

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B A N YA N T R E E B A N G K O K

Banyan Tree Bangkok Experience the electric buzz of Bangkok the Banyan Tree way. Banyan Tree Bangkok is conveniently located in the upmarket Sathorn neighbourhood, just ten minutes’ walk from the bustling streets of Silom and close to the urban oasis of Lumphini Park. One of the tallest hotels in Thailand’s capital city, this landmark retreat offers some of Bangkok’s best views – especially from Vertigo, the dramatic rooftop venue. This exceptional all-suite hotel also features luxurious and spacious accommodation, world-class dining experiences, meeting space and a serene spa.

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B A N YA N T R E E P H U K E T

Banyan Tree Phuket Perfectly positioned between the Andaman Sea and a spectacular saltwater lagoon, Banyan Tree Phuket is the ideal destination for tropical holidays in Thailand. With its collection of stunning pool villas, this luxury resort is a paradise within paradise.

Guests can relax on the golden beach, soothe their senses at the Banyan Tree Spa or enjoy exhilarating outdoor activities including water sports or golf at Laguna Phuket Golf Club. And with 11 distinct dining experiences to choose from, guests will be able to embark on a different culinary journey on every day of their stay.

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B A N YA N T R E E P H U K E T

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B A N YA N T R E E L Ă N G C Ô , C E N T R A L V I E T N A M

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B A N YA N T R E E L Ă N G C Ô , C E N T R A L V I E T N A M

Banyan Tree Lăng Cô, Central Vietnam Escape to Vietnam’s breath-taking central coast at Banyan Tree Lăng Cô, the exquisite all-pool villa resort nestled between the azure sea and verdant mountains. This pristine private sanctuary is the perfect destination for travellers seeking an exclusive retreat or a base from which to explore this beautiful region. Located close to three UNESCO-listed World Heritage sites – Hoi An, the Imperial Citadel of Hue, and the My Son Sanctuary – this multi-award-winning resort promises guests a captivating blend of authentic culture, unspoilt natural beauty and unparalleled luxury.

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OPP ALLIANCE

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OPP ALLIANCE

OPP Alliance to Reshape B2B Travel Landscape in Asia WebBeds is proud to announce the launch of the

For hotels, OPP Alliance will provide more effective

OPP Alliance, a ground-breaking new B2B alliance

and widespread distribution through a single

which is set to reshape the travel landscape in Asia.

partner, while travel agencies will be offered a comprehensive single source of contracted content.

This exciting new collaboration will initially see four

It is truly a win-win arrangement!

major Asian travel wholesalers - WebBeds, AntaVaya, Hotelpass Global and Westminster Travel - team up

In future, OPP Alliance will continue to seek other

to form a new regional powerhouse.

like-minded partners, introducing its benefits to even more parts of the region – and the world – so

Together, these partners will work together to

stay tuned for further updates!

deliver one of the industry’s most comprehensive collections of hotel content, ranging from major

For more information about the OPP Alliance,

international brands to independent boutique

please email enquiry@oppalliance.com.

hotels, which will be shared extensively between all members and delivered straight to Asia’s travel trade.

WebBeds will act as the alliance’s central coordinator, while also taking responsibility for hotel contracting in Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia.

AntaVaya will cover Indonesia, Hotelpass Global will be responsible for South Korea and Japan, and Westminster Travel will handle Greater China.

Each partner will retain its independence while leveraging the strengths of the group, helping to accelerate the growth of their own businesses.

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EXCLUSIVE

Bangkok, Thailand

SIAM KEMPINSKI HOTEL BANGKOK

ENJOY EXCLUSIVE HOTEL DEALS AND SAVE UP TO 30% WHEN YOU BOOK THROUGH WEBBEDS’ BRANDS

E A R N

3X FIT POINTS

Exclusive Reduced Rates + 3X FIT Rewards Booking and travel period: 28 January – 04 June 2019

Kyoto, Japan

ENSO ANGO YAMATO I

E A R N

3X FIT POINTS

Exclusive Reduced Rates + 3X FIT Rewards Booking and travel period: 28 January – 30 April 2019

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

SWISS-GARDEN HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR 30% OFF Booking and travel period: 09 January – 28 February 2019

Seoul, South Korea

SHILLA STAY GWANGHWAMUN Complimentary bottle of wine for every room night booked. (2 nights = 2 bottle of wine) Applicable to rooms with “free wifi” in room note only.

Booking Period : 23 January – 28 February 2019 Travel Period : 10 – 28 February 2019

Seoul, South Korea

SHILLA STAY MAPO 20% OFF (minimum 2 nights) + Complimentary Room Upgrade - subject to availability.

Applicable to rooms with “Complimentary upgrade to Deluxe Room with a minimum of 2 nights stay.” in room note.

Booking Period : 23 January – 28 February 2019 Travel Period : 10 – 28 February 2019