Travel Aggregator (July 2024)

APAC Newsletter

JULY 2024

The Ultimate Definition of Luxury Travel

Peaceful Retreats in Asia Pacific

Eat Your Way Through Seoul

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FOREWORD

WEBBEDS ASIA PACIFIC KS SUN President, APAC Koksheng.Sun@webbeds.com CYNDI NG Senior Vice President – Sourcing, APAC Cyndi.Ng@webbeds.com CHERYL CHEANG Vice President, Marketing, APAC Cheryl.Cheang@webbeds.com CHUA CHUN KIAT Vice President, Commercial Strategy, APAC Chunkiat.Chua@webbeds.com EILEEN TOK Vice President, Commercial Technology, APAC Eileen.Tok@webbeds.com JOSEPHINE LIM Vice President, Commercial Development, APAC Josephine.Lim@webbeds.com

FOREWORD Welcome to the latest edition of Travel Aggregator, WebBeds’ monthly newsletter dedicated to our travel trade friends and partners in Asia Pacific.

Do you dream of getting away from it all and experiencing complete peace and tranquility? If so, this issue is perfect for you! Our travel experts recommend the best places in Asia Pacific to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature, culture and history. We also reveal a selection of hotels and resorts that blend local charm and serenity with first-class comfort.

For high-end travellers who want to experience the life of luxury, we also check into four of the finest five-star properties in Asia Pacific. Whether you’re seeking the ultimate beachfront escape, a historic icon, stylish urban suites or idyllic island villas, these are some of the region’s most opulent accommodations.

Our popular culinary feature, “Eat Your Way Through…” will transport you on a tasting tour of Seoul.

With expert insights on where to dine and what to order, this is your ultimate guide to the vibrant food scene in South Korea’s capital city.

This month, our “Featured Resort” is Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre, the world’s biggest Mercure hotel, “Newly-Opened” visits Scenic, Munnar - IHCL SeleQtions, the new resort in the rolling hills of Kerala, India, and of course, you can catch up with all the latest news, photos and exclusive offers from WebBeds in Asia Pacific.

CELES YAP Country Manager, Malaysia Celes.Yap@webbeds.com JINTANA PORNTANAPAT General Manager, Thailand and Indochina Jintana.Porntanapat@webbeds.com JOHN STUCCI Regional Vice President, Indonesia, India & Pacific John.Stucci@webbeds.com JOY HUANG Regional Vice President, China Joy.Huang@webbeds.com LINDA KIM General Manager, South Korea Linda.Kim@webbeds.com PETER LEE General Manager, Japan Peter.Lee@webbeds.com VENUS CHAN General Manager, Hong Kong and Taiwan Venus.Chan@webbeds.com

Thanks for reading!

KS Sun President, Asia Pacific WebBeds To catch up on any past editions of Travel Aggregator, simply head to apac-marketing.webbeds.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@webbeds.com. Alternatively, for marketing partnerships with WebBeds Asia Pacific, please email apac.marketing@webbeds.com

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@WebBedsAPAC

Komodo National Park, Indonesia

A CITY WELLNESS SANCTUARY An evergreen enclave in this luxury five-star hotel in Bangkok, our spacious rooms and suites are designed for your comfort and the variety of culinary creations, wellness and wellbeing is at the heart of every experience.

Discover the perfect balance of luxury and wellness in the heart of Bangkok. kempinski.com/sindhorn apac.sales@webbeds.com

SINDHORN KEMPINSKI HOTEL BANGKOK T: +66 2 095 9999 Line: @sindhornkempinski kempinski.com/sindhorn

SCENIC, MUNNAR - IHCL SELEQTIONS

Scenic, Munnar - IHCL SeleQtio

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NEWLY OPENED

ons

SCENIC, MUNNAR - IHCL SELEQTIONS

Visitors to Munnar, the charming hill station in Kerala’s stunning Western Ghats, can now stay in a new upscale resort that frames lush, jungle-clad mountain scenery in every direction. The aptly-named Scenic, Munnar is the latest addition to SeleQtions, IHCL Hotels & Resorts’ curated collection of signature hotels and resorts in some of India’s most desirable destinations.

Guests can stay in a choice of 55 elegant rooms and villas, all of which are adorned with natural materials such as wood and stone, plus floral décor, modern amenities and balconies with breath-taking views.

Some rooms even feature private plunge pools, and the top accommodation category – the 41-square metre SeleQtions Villa with Plunge Pool – is a luxurious option for up to four people. Dedicated “Pawcations Rooms” offer pet beds, feeding bowls and more for guests with four-legged friends.

The multi-tiered freeform pool is the perfect place to unwind during the day, while the spa offers soothing therapies, and the restaurant is an outstanding setting to enjoy memorable meals with loved ones whilst gazing out over the mist shrouded forest. Intrepid explorers can head out and explore the surrounding hills, which are home to hiking trails, waterfalls, tea plantations and botanical gardens.

For travellers who want to discover the spectacular natural beauty of India’s Kerala state, Scenic, Munnar IHCL SeleQtions is an exceptional new place to stay.

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The Ultimate Definition of Luxury Travel What is luxury? Is it a tangible experience of being surrounded by designer brands and sumptuous materials, or is it a more abstract sensation – that special feeling of enjoying deeply personalised moments and culturally authentic encounters?

In this article, we check out four of Asia Pacific’s five-star hotels and resorts that are redefining “ultra luxury” travel and fuelling a passion for discovery.

OUTRIGGER FIJI BEACH RESORT

THE ULTIMATE BEACHFRONT ESCAPE

Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort The true essence of luxury travel blends five-star facilities with highly authentic activities. At Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort, guests can unwind in chic suites or thatched “bures” overlooking the Indian Ocean, plunge into shimmering pools, sip cool cocktails at a swim-up bar, play golf and tennis, or feel pampered in the awardwinning spa. Private “Talai Butlers” will offer customised services and visitors can feel the heart and soul of Fiji with immersive arts & crafts activities and unforgettable cultural ceremonies.

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OUTRIGGER FIJI BEACH RESORT

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PA L A Z Z O V E R S A C E M A C AU

THE ULTIMATE URBAN SUITES

Palazzo Versace Macau The timeless grace and glamour of Italian luxury can now be experienced in the glittering Chinese city of Macau.

Palazzo Versace Macau reflects the grandeur of an Italian palace, with classical influences drawn from Baroque and Ancient Greek architecture. The Grand, Signature and Imperial Suites all envelop guests in an ambience of complete indulgence, with bespoke furniture, original artworks, handcrafted mosaics, designer bathroom amenities and more, in keeping with the exquisite taste and craftsmanship that defines the House of Versace.

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PA L A Z Z O V E R S A C E M A C AU

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S R I P A N WA P H U K E T

THE ULTIMATE ISLAND VILLAS

Sri Panwa Phuket Luxury and exclusivity go hand-in-hand, and this fivestar resort allows travellers to enjoy complete seclusion and serenity on the tip of a pristine peninsula. Nestled in 40 acres of tropical gardens overlooking the azure Andaman Sea, Sri Panwa offers a collection of breathtaking pool suites and villas with light-filled living spaces, contemporary Thai interiors, plush furnishings and wrap-around windows that frame endless ocean views.

A private 12-metre infinity pool, sundeck and sala allow every guest to soak up the island vibes.

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S R I P A N WA P H U K E T

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THE PENINSULA HONG KONG

THE ULTIMATE LUXURY TRAVEL ICON

The Peninsula Hong Kong Tradition is an integral part of the luxury experience, as discerning globetrotters strive to infuse their itineraries with history and heritage. The “Grande Dame of the Far East”, The Peninsula Hong Kong is a legendary hotel which has welcomed world leaders, celebrities and business icons ever since it opened in 1928. For truly elevated stays, The Peninsula Suite is a palatial pied à terre that features a double-height living room, grand piano, formal dining room, private screening room, gym and dazzling views over Victoria Harbour.

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THE PENINSULA HONG KONG

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Elevate your adventure in Thailand’s capital of luxury.

Unwind in unparalleled style and comfort in Bangkok’s best hotels and indulge in a gourmet dinner cruise while taking in the iconic sights along the Chao Phraya River.

Catch our exclusive video series, Bangkok Unboxed, created in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and uncover the latest excitements in Bangkok!

Watch more videos

PEACEFUL

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achieve complete serenity in Asia Pacific.

JAPAN

Kanazawa Do you dream of experiencing Japan’s graceful history and heritage, away from the hustle and bustle of the country’s modern megacities. A trip to the former castle town of Kanazawa feels like travelling back in time to the evocative Edo period.

The charming wooden buildings, ancient temples and exquisite shrines create a captivating ambience, and Kenrokuen Garden is considered one of the most beautiful landscaped gardens in the country. Without hordes of tourists, you will have many of these wonders to yourself.

RECOMMENDED HOTEL:

KOKO Hotel Premier Kanazawa Korinbo KOKO Hotel Premier Kanazawa Korinbo blends Japanese tradition with modern amenities in the heart of this historic city. The largest hotel in Kanazawa, it retains a sense of style and elegance with minimalist décor and classical furnishings. Stay in a choice of rooms, including queen, king and twin options with panoramic views over the verdant scenery, and enjoy daily breakfast at Fino, the onsite restaurant and lounge. Local attractions including Kenrokuen Garden are just a short walk away.

LAOS

Luang Prabang Nestled between the mighty Mekong and meandering Nam Khan rivers, surrounded by the jungle-clad hills of northern Laos, Luang Prabang is a dreamy destination that exudes an aura of deep calm. Head out and explore sacred Buddhist caves, lush forests, dramatic waterfalls and local villages, or simply unwind in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town. Strolling through the traffic-free streets, past golden temples and saffron robed monks, you will feel your heart rate slow and your cares float away.

RECOMMENDED HOTEL:

Burasari Heritage Hotel Luang Prabang Burasari Heritage Hotel Luang Prabang is a beautiful boutique hotel that infuses the grace and elegance of Laos’ former royal capital into every stay. Set in a former villa in the French influenced old town, overlooking the river, this upscale hotel captures the timeless essence of Luang Prabang with teak furniture, sleek wooden floors and soft furnishings adorned with traditional patterns. The spa is an award-winning wellness sanctuary while the restaurant uses fresh ingredients to blend French and Lao flavors.

MALAYSIA

Perhentian Islands Southeast Asia’s idyllic islands have always been places to get away from it all, but in the modern era of international travel, tropical beachfront seclusion is becoming increasingly difficult to find. This makes the Pehrentian Islands truly enticing. Nestled in the turquoise sea just off the northeast coast of Peninsular Malaysia, these two exotic islands offer the ultimate tapestry of crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches and verdant forests. Don’t miss the chance to discover the vibrant marine life with a snorkelling trip!

RECOMMENDED HOTEL:

Perhentian Marriott Resort & Spa Perhentian Marriott Resort & Spa introduces Marriott’s timeless style of international hospitality to these peaceful paradise islands. Set on a jungle-clad hillside with breath-taking views across the sea and daily sunsets, this five-star resort features a collection of contemporary rooms and luxurious pool villas that overlook the ocean. A choice of restaurants includes a dedicated seafood grill, while Qi Forest Spa is a haven of wellness, and the soft, sandy beach is just steps away.

INDONESIA

Labuan Bajo A mysterious labyrinth of islands, rocky peaks, verdant plains and coral reefs, Komodo National Park is a truly evocative, other-worldly destination. At its gateway, on the western tip of Flores island, Labuan Bajo sets the stage for extraordinary adventures in this wild, untamed land. Trek into the rugged wilderness, meet colourful tribes in remote villages, and swim in hidden cave lakes. Then step aboard a traditional phinisi boat to explore the mesmerising marine world, above and beneath the waves. And of course, watch out for dragons!

RECOMMENDED HOTEL:

Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa is a stunning seafront retreat that blends rustic style with luxurious comfort. Stay in a choice of spacious residences, many of which feature private pools or direct beach access, unwind at the spa or pool, or uncover marine treasures just offshore at the enchanting underwater park. The resort's restaurants and beach club promise a choice of alfresco dining experiences as the sun sets over the exotic islands of Komodo National Park.

HOTEL DELIGHT

WHERE TO STAY:

Hotel Delight Hotel Delight is a modern midscale hotel in the upmarket Jamsil district, just a short walk from Jinjeonbok Samgyetang. Guests can stay in contemporary rooms or a selection of spacious duplex Tower Suites, all featuring comfy bedding and stateof-the-art amenities, including 65-inch smart TVs. Café Bolzan is a stylish setting to grab breakfast, light bites and freshly-brewed coffee.

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L’ E S C A P E H O T E L

WHERE TO STAY:

L’Escape Hotel L’Escape Hotel is a chic boutique hotel in the centre of Seoul, close to Teumsae Ramyeon and Goryeo Samgyetang. The lavish Parisian interiors were crafted

by French designer Jacques Garcia and blend rich, embroidered fabrics with premium amenities such as plush beds, free-standing bathtubs and Nespresso machines. L’Amant Secret restaurant specialises in modern Korean cuisine.

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L7 HONGDAE

WHERE TO STAY:

L7 Hongdae L7 Hongdae is a trendy upscale hotel that puts guests in the heart of Hongdae, close to Cocoro Chicken & Pub. Travellers can stay in a choice of double, triple and suite rooms and get a great night’s sleep with the he:on bedding system, dine at The Place, the elegant Italian bistro on the 21st floor, or chill out at the rooftop pool and bar.

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LOT TE HOTEL WORLD

WHERE TO STAY:

Lotte Hotel World Lotte Hotel World elevates every stay in Seoul’s Gangnam district to five-star levels of luxury. A short walk from Mala Tongdak, this sophisticated hotel features a variety of rooms, including themed family options, plus exceptional restaurants, extensive health and beauty facilities, a golf driving range, kids’ club and more. It is also directly connected to the Lotte World Mall.

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F E AT U R E D H O T E L O F T H E M O N T H

Featured Hotel of the Month

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F E AT U R E D H O T E L O F T H E M O N T H

Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre Singapore Accor is giving its guests even more opportunities to discover the cultural wonders of Singapore at the 989-key Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre, which became the largest Mercure hotel in the world when it opened its doors earlier this year.

Situated on Club Street, just a short walk from the local temples, street markets and food centres of Chinatown, this modern midscale hotel is ideal for explorers who want to feel the authentic essence of the Lion City. And yet, this impressive property is also just moments from the multinational offices and skyscrapers of the CBD, creating the best of both worlds for business and leisure travellers.

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F E AT U R E D H O T E L O F T H E M O N T H

The cultural surroundings are reflected in the décor of the rooms and suites, which are adorned with wall artworks of Singapore’s famous shophouses and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame panoramic views of the neighbourhood.

And of course, every room promises contemporary comforts such as smart TVs, high-speed Wi-Fi, power showers and more.

A choice of five F&B outlets includes the Chara Brasserie all-day restaurant, the French-inspired La Table d’Emma, and L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele – the first Asia Pacific location for this Michelin-rated Italian concept. Leisure seekers can also unwind at the swimming pool, gym and wellness deck, which hosts complimentary yoga sessions.

For guests seeking a hotel that blends local charm and heritage with the highest standards of international hospitality, Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre sets the stage for immersive urban adventures.

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F E AT U R E D H O T E L O F T H E M O N T H

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