Travel Aggregator (March 2022)

MARCH 2022

APAC Newsletter

Poetic Adventures In Asia Pacific ~ Page 4

Park Life: Discover Asia Pacific's Extraordinary Reserves ~ Page 20

Hotels To Inspire Your Home Aesthetics ~ Page 42

FOREWORD

WEBBEDS ASIA PACIFIC KS SUN President, Asia Pacific Koksheng.Sun@webbeds.com CYNDI NG COO Cyndi.Ng@webbeds.com BERNARD CHIONH CFO Bernard.Chionh@webbeds.com CHERYL CHEANG Vice President, Marketing Cheryl.Cheang@webbeds.com

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

This month, we’re showcasing the extraordinary natural beauty of Asia Pacific with “Park Life”, our special feature about the region’s must-visit national parks. As the seasons change and flowers start to bloom, there is no better time to lace up your boots and embrace the great outdoors!

This month (21st March 2022) also marks World Poetry Day, so WebBeds is celebrating this timeless and treasured style of expression by revealing some of the finest places in Asia Pacific to experience the joy of poetry, including several UNESCO Cities of Literature.

And finally, are some hotels and resorts so striking that you never want to leave? Interior design in the hospitality industry is becoming so impressive that many people are even using it as the inspiration for their own home décor. In this edition, we’ll check into some of the region’s top design hotels to immerse you in a world of colour, texture and creativity.

Finally, you can catch up with all the latest news, photos and exclusive offers from WebBeds in Asia Pacific.

Enjoy the read!

KS Sun

CHUA CHUN KIAT Vice President, Commercial Strategy Chunkiat.Chua@webbeds.com EILEEN TOK Vice President, Commercial Technology Eileen.Tok@webbeds.com JINTANA PORNTANAPAT General Manager, Thailand and Indochina Jintana.Porntanapat@webbeds.com JOHN STUCCI Managing Director, Pacific, India & Indonesia John.Stucci@webbeds.com JOY HUANG Managing Director, China Joy.Huang@webbeds.com JOY ZHOU General Manager, Singapore and Malaysia Joy.Zhou@webbeds.com LINDA KIM General Manager, South Korea Linda.Kim@webbeds.com VINCENT LEUNG Managing Director, Hong Kong, Philippines & Japan Vincent.Leung@webbeds.com

President, Asia Pacific, WebBeds To catch up on any past editions of Travel Aggregator, simply head to attractions.fitruums.com/ aggregator KS Sun President, Asia Pacific

@WebBedsAPAC

WebBeds To catch up on any past editions of Travel Aggregator, simply head to apac-marketing.webbeds.com/aggregator Komodo National Park, Labuan Bajo, Indonesia

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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POETIC ADVENTURES IN ASIA PACIFIC Is any artform more evocative than poetry? Its beauty lies with its ability to transcend borders; whatever language poems are written in, their words have the power to build cultural bridges and bring harmony to a troubled world. Held annually on 21st March, World Poetry Day celebrates this timeless and treasured style of expression.

Here are some of Asia Pacific’s finest places to experience the joy of poetry…

GANGWON, SOUTH KOREA South Korea’s Gangwon province has a deep cultural heritage. Kim Yu-jeong Literature Village traces the life of the country’s most famous novelist, who hailed from Chuncheon, while nearby Wonju, a UNESCO City of Literature, was the home of Park Kyong-Ni, author of “Toji” and one of Korea’s most revered writers. To honour her memory, the Toji Culture Center has run a residency programme for writers since 2001.

HOTEL GONGJICHEON

WHERE TO STAY

HOTEL GONGJICHEON Nestled in the centre of Chuncheon, Gangwon’s provincial capital, Hotel Gongjicheon is a great base from which to explore this classical city. The 30 midscale rooms are comfortable and equipped with kitchen facilities for added convenience. Head out and discover the local cafés, restaurants and attractions, including Lake Uiam Bridge, which is just three minutes from the hotel.

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O A K VA L L E Y R E S O R T

WHERE TO STAY

OAK VALLEY RESORT For guests who want to experience the UNESCOrecognised city of Wonju, Oak Valley is an exceptional resort complex that puts the city and its surrounding attractions within easy reach. With 1,100 Europeaninfluenced rooms, a 36-hole golf course and ski slope, this is a wonderful place to relax. Wonju’s literary attractions are just a short drive away.

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MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA Few countries on Earth can boast a literary history as ancient as Australia. Indigenous communities have been telling stories for over 40,000 years, using rock carvings and paintings to pass folk tales down through the generations. Modern-day Melbourne is a UNESCO City of Literature, the home of some of Australia’s greatest writers, and the location of the country’s oldest public library, the State Library of Victoria, which was founded in 1854.

E S S E N C E H O T E L C A R LT O N

WHERE TO STAY

ESSENCE HOTEL CARLTON Nestled between the State Library of Victoria and Melbourne Museum in the centre of the city, Essence Hotel Carlton is perfectly positioned for culture seekers. The modern midscale rooms are bright and well-equipped, while hotel services include a gym, recreation area, barbecue facilities and more.

With complimentary Wi-Fi, this hotel is comfortable, convenient and fully connected.

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OAKWO OD PREMIER MELB OURNE

WHERE TO STAY

OAKWOOD PREMIER MELBOURNE Australia’s first Oakwood Premier, this sleek and stylish property blends elements of a luxury hotel and a premium serviced apartment. Situated at South Wharf, guests can unwind at the restaurant, sky bar, lounge spaces, games room and fitness centre. The city is easily accessible via the tram network, which stops just 300 metres from the hotel.

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NANJING, CHINA Founded 2,500 years ago, Nanjing served as China’s capital city for six dynasties. Its written heritage includes being the site of China’s first literary academy and home of the world’s largest reference work, the Imperial Encyclopaedia. Over 10,000 literary works have been written in or about Nanjing, including many of China’s most famous poems. For keen readers, Nanjing’s Librairie Avant-Garde is considered one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores.

JIN JIANG NANJING HOTEL

WHERE TO STAY

JIN JIANG NANJING HOTEL Travellers can uncover the rich history of Nanjing at this elegant hotel, which was first established in 1936.

Formerly known as the International Club, this upscale property comprises five buildings and 280 rooms and suites, with a wide range of dining options and leisure facilities. It is famous locally for its beautiful gardens, trees and ponds.

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LAKEHOME NANJING

WHERE TO STAY

LAKEHOME NANJING This chic waterfront hotel represents the contemporary face of this ancient city. Set on the banks of Baijia Lake, the second largest lake in Nanjing which dates from the early Ming Dynasty, this sleek hotel boasts a full range of five-star facilities, including enticing restaurants and bars, an inviting indoor pool, a spa, kids’ club and games room.

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Park Life:

Discover Asia Pacific’s Extraordinary Reserves Nature is the greatest show on Earth – an extraordinary exhibition of organic attractions that is more dramatic, dazzling and diverse than anything shown on screen. As Asia Pacific’s seasons start to change, the best places to witness the wonders of nature are its national parks. Created to preserve the native flora and fauna, these conservation areas are also amazing tourist destinations in their own right.

The world is a breath-taking place, so lace up your boots and embrace the great outdoors!

HAIPHONG, VIETNAM

Cat Ba National Park Haiphong, Vietnam

Never heard of Cat Ba? If not, you’ll definitely recognise it. This expansive ecosystem in northeast Vietnam is next to Halong Bay, one of the planet’s most iconic seascapes. Covering over 17,000 hectares and featuring 366 islands, this is a UNESCO World Heritage site and Biosphere Reserve. Take a blissful cruise through the bay or try to spot some of the area’s 232 species of animal, including goldenheaded langurs – the world’s most endangered primate.

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F L A M I N G O C AT BA R E S O RT

WHERE TO STAY

Flamingo Cat Ba Resort Flamingo Cat Ba Resort is a spectacular fivestar resort on the southern tip of Cat Ba Island, overlooking a pair of sandy bays and the azure sea beyond. Stay in a choice of spacious rooms and suites with mountain or ocean views, cool off in the sea-facing Shell Pool, stroll through the jungle canopy on the stunning Sky Walk, enjoy soothing therapies at the spa, or dine in style at a choice of restaurants.

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F L A M I N G O C AT BA R E S O RT

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L A B UA N B A J O, I N D O N E S I A

Komodo National Park Labuan Bajo, Indonesia

Few animals symbolise a nation like the Komodo dragon. The world’s largest lizard, which can grow up to three metres in length, is an icon of Indonesia.

Komodo National Park, which spans 29 volcanic islands, is the only location on the planet to see these ferocious beasts in the wild. Other exotic attractions in this remote region include rugged peaks and sandy beaches, while its seas are home to pristine coral reefs.

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M E R U O R A H K O M O D O L A B UA N B A J O

WHERE TO STAY

Meruorah Komodo Labuan Bajo Perched on a hill with panoramic ocean views, Meruorah Komodo Labuan Bajo showcases the breath-taking natural beauty of Komodo National Park. This five-star retreat features 145 rooms and suites, many of which overlook the sea, plus a private marina, shopping centre, infinity pool, spa and restaurant. At the end of a rewarding day exploring the local area, the seventh floor Moon Bar provides the perfect place to relax.

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M E R U O R A H K O M O D O L A B UA N B A J O

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S Y D N E Y, A U S T R A L I A

Royal National Park Sydney, Australia

Less than an hour’s drive from the centre of Sydney, Royal National Park is a popular retreat for city dwellers who want to unwind in peace and tranquility.

Covering over 15,000 hectares of unspoiled coastline and bushland, this is a great place to swim, cycle, hike and appreciate the wonders of nature. The region is also home to a series of sandy shores, including popular surfing spots and safe, sheltered coves for a picnic and a paddle.

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RYD GES CRONULL A BEACHSIDE

WHERE TO STAY

Rydges Cronulla Beachside Stay at the gateway to Royal National Park at Rydges Cronulla Beachside, which is perfectly positioned on the waterfront, close to the ferry port for day-trippers. This upscale boutique hotel has the feel of a beach house, with just 84 rooms and suites and panoramic ocean views. The Alley is a casual restaurant and bar, great for fresh coffee and craft beers, while the outdoor pool provides the perfect place to cool off.

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RYD GES CRONULL A BEACHSIDE

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P H U K E T, T H A I L A N D

Sirinat National Park Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is famous for its tourist attractions, but guests who want to step off the beaten track and experience its natural beauty should head to Sirinat National Park – an unspoiled environment in the island’s northwest corner. Covering 22 square kilometres of coastal land with sandy beaches, mangrove forests, diverse flora and fauna and colourful coral reefs, this enchanting eco-haven feels a million miles away from the bustling resort areas further south.

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M A I K H A O PA L M B E A C H R E S O R T

WHERE TO STAY

Maikhao Palm Beach Resort Nestled on a secluded section of Phuket’s sunset coast, Maikhao Palm Beach Resort is a stunning seafront resort that looks and feels like a traditional Thai village. Overlooking Maikhao Beach and the Andaman Sea, and surrounded by Sirinat National Park, this five-star resort features 225 spacious rooms and suites and four freeform pools amid landscaped gardens. The spa, fitness centre, kids’ club, beach club and restaurants complete the full collection of facilities.

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M A I K H A O PA L M B E A C H R E S O R T

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T A G A Y T A Y, T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

Taal Volcano National Park Tagaytay, The Philippines

Taal Volcano is one of the Philippines’ most seismically active peaks. Rising 311 metres in the province of Batangas, within easy reach of Manila, it sits within Taal Volcano National Park, a breath-taking 62,000-hectare ecosystem that showcases the country’s breath-taking biological and geological wonders. Trek up to the caldera, take a dip in Taal Lake, or try to spot the diverse flora and fauna, which includes the world’s only freshwater sardine and a unique species of sea snake.

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Q U E S T H O T E L TA G AY TAY

WHERE TO STAY

Quest Hotel Tagaytay Quest Hotel Tagaytay is a new midscale hotel that puts guests on the doorstep of Taal Volcano National Park. Situated in the centre of Tagaytay City, just an hour’s drive from Manila, guests can stay in a selection of contemporary rooms and suites, which range from 23-44 square metres and feature free Wi-Fi, relax in the outdoor pool or try delicious Filipino and international cuisine at Café Q, the onsite restaurant.

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Q U E S T H O T E L TA G AY TAY

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HOTELS TO INSPIRE YOUR HOME AESTHETICS Some hotels and resorts are so striking that you never want to leave! The interiors can be so evocative that they can provide the inspiration for your own home refurbishment project. But why scour Pinterest for revamp ideas when you can experience them for yourself? By checking into these design hotels, you’ll be immersed in a world of colour, texture and creativity.

Our collection of Asia’s most spectacular places to stay could provide the spark you need for your next home design project…

THE UPPER HOUSE

HON

THE UP PE

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THE UPPER HOUSE

NG KONG

ER H OUSE

Blending cutting-edge style with the warmth of a private residence, this five-star hotel is a modern masterpiece. The monochromatic design is softened by natural materials such as timber, bamboo, stone and lacquered paper panels.

Using contrasting colours and textures, each living space feels contemporary yet cosy, with silky soft linens, curvaceous furniture and limestone-clad bathtubs all bathed in natural light.

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THE HARI HONG KONG

HON

THE HAR I H

A mid-century design concept elevated by co

furnishings, The Hari escorts guests on a multi-sen

through the decades. Timber panelling, linen wa

plush velvet upholstery, complemented by rich blu

tones, transport the mind and soul back to a glamor

era. The black and white geometric patterns and mi

at Lucciola Restaurant could inspire your n

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THE HARI HONG KONG

NG KONG

HON G K ONG

ontemporary

nsory journey

allpaper and

ue and green

rous bygone

irrored walls

next kitchen!

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THE RUMA

KUALA

THE R

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THE RUMA

A LUMPUR

RUM A

Rumah means “home” in Malay, but we can only dream of living somewhere that looks and feels as fabulous as this! The ambience is unmistakably homely however; an earthy colour palette and local materials such as woven rattan chairs, copper sinks and wooden floors are warm and welcoming, while hand-selected artworks and sculptures resemble authentic pieces from a Malay “kampung” house.

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KLOÉ HOTEL

KUALA

KLO E H

A spirit of creativity is infused into every aspect of this upscale hotel. Kloé feels fresh and organic, without unnecessary embellishments. Industrial and natural elements are seamlessly blended together to produce a rustic-chic studio style. Feel inspired? The five “Artist Lofts” are filled with books, music, artworks and more to allow guests to channel their artisan spirit and craft personal masterpieces.

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KLOÉ HOTEL

A LUMPUR

HOT E L

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B UA H A N B Y B A N YA N T R E E

B

B U AHAN B Y B

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B UA H A N B Y B A N YA N T R E E

BALI

BAN Y AN T REE

This luxurious new eco-retreat brings the beauty of Bali’s ecological and cultural heritage into every villa. Using canvas screens and curtains, Buahan seamlessly blends the warmth and comfort of indoor living with Ubud’s lush jungle landscapes that lie just beyond the drapes. Meanwhile, carved wooden headboards, hammered copper bathtubs and organically dyed textiles pay homage to ancient Balinese craftsmanship.

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P O TAT O H E A D S T U D I O S AT D E S A P O TAT O H E A D

B

POTATO HEAD STU DIO S

Imagine a world where nature has fought back against humankind, as tropical foliage creeps, hangs and weaves its way through the manmade landscape. The hard-edged concrete exteriors and stone floors are softened by sensitively-sourced, eco-friendly materials, such as reclaimed wood, native thatch and even recycled plastic bottles. The design concept also pays homage to the rich traditions of Balinese art and crafts.

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P O TAT O H E A D S T U D I O S AT D E S A P O TAT O H E A D

BALI

AT D ES A POTATO HEAD

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M a r c h 20 22

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