Travel Aggregator (March 2019)

MAR 2019

APAC Newsletter

WIN! 3D2N stay at • The Outpost Hotel • The Puxuan Hotel and Spa

Celebrate Songkran in style with Holiday Inn Express

Re-enact movie scenes in top Europe cities

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Best corporate hotels in Asia

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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 this month’s edition of Travel Aggregator – WebBeds’ monthly newsletter dedicated to the travel trade in Asia Pacific!

In the March issue, we head to the movies and discover the best destinations in Europe to follow in the footsteps of film stars! Closer to home, we reveal how Asia’s economic boom is driving business travel all across this dynamic region, and the best places for corporate travellers to stay.

With Thailand’s New Year holiday approaching, we consider the best ways to celebrate Songkran in Bangkok and Phuket, and of course we’ll give you a first glimpse of some of Asia’s most exciting new hotels and resorts.

Finally, we’ll bring you right up to date with the latest news and exclusive offers from WebBeds, including our revamped offices, record results and an interview with Vivian Sung, our Operations Manager for South Asia.

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

@WebBedsAPAC

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 The Peninsula Paris Hotel

REDISCOVER

SW I TEH N T O S A 3 NEW HOTELS Whether it's for business or pleasure, a weekend getaway or a longer stay, indulge yourself by staying in one of these 3 new hotels.

The Outpost Hotel Occupying a conserved heritage area in Singapore’s Sentosa island, The Outpost Hotel, with 193 black and white designed guest rooms, caters to adults looking for upscale accommodation on a trendy island getaway. For evening cocktails, candlelit dinners and intimate celebrations, guests have exclusive access to the rooftop Sky Pool which boasts panoramic views of the South China Sea. In addition, guests will be presented with a collection of premium wine selection, fruits, energy bars, and snacks from which any 5 preferred items will be placed into their minibar. A welcome drink mixed specially for them will also be served upon checking in.

Village Hotel at Sentosa Energetic, fun, and vibrant – the family-friendly Village Hotel at Sentosa offers an experiential stay for families, as well as leisure and meeting groups. The hotel offers 606 cosy guest rooms themed with sun-washed hues of nature by the sea. Ideal for guests travelling with kids, the Family Rooms come with two rooms, two bathrooms and can comfortably cater to a family of four. The pool deck in the hotel has four themed pools as well as activities from beach games to face painting ensuring that everyone has a fun-filled day.

The Barracks Hotel Housed in a conserved colonial building, The Barracks Hotel is an exclusive heritage hideaway and is a window to the rich history of Sentosa. Its 40 well appointed guest rooms and suites are simply striking. Exquisite service and the attention to detail for every pampering creature comfort are paramount.

Visit www.StayFarEast.com/Sentosa to find out more.

C E L E B R AT E S O N G K R A N I N T H A I L A N D W I T H H O L I D AY I N N E X P R E S S

Celebrate Songkran in Thailand with Holiday Inn Express Songkran, Thailand’s annual New Year celebration, is one of the world’s most spectacular festivals. For three days every April, the entire country transforms into a wet and wild wonderland with lively, watersoaked street parties - a great way of cooling off during the hottest month of the year!

These fun-filled festivities have more serene and spiritual roots, however. Water is a symbol of purification and classical Songkran activities include visiting temples and gently pouring water over Buddhist statues and elder relatives.

Today, guests can experience both the traditional and modern faces of Songkran in Thailand.

Bangkok and Phuket are both fantastic destinations for locals and visitors to come together in a spirit of celebration, and whichever destination you choose, Holiday Inn Express has a convenient hotel to suit your needs.

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H O L I D AY I N N E X P R E S S B A N G K O K S I A M

WHERE TO STAY

Holiday Inn Express Bangkok Siam

WHERE TO CELEBRATE

Siam Square This hipster hub is where Bangkok’s trendy young set comes to shop and socialise. It is also a great

In the beating heart of Bangkok, just two minutes’

place to enjoy Songkran’s fun festivities, so fill up

walk from National Stadium BTS skytrain station,

your water gun and get ready for a soaking!

this smart hotel puts revellers in the centre of the action. Enjoy an Express Breakfast then head out and enjoy the fun, or simply watch from the rooftop gym or through your room’s floor-toceiling windows.

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H O L I D AY I N N E X P R E S S B A N G K O K S AT H O R N

WHERE TO STAY

Holiday Inn Express Bangkok Sathorn

Silom Road Silom Road is one of Bangkok’s main thoroughfares, but traffic comes to a complete

Perfectly positioned between the business

halt during Songkran as the street transforms into

district of Sathorn and the entertainment hub

a huge party zone. The action centres on the Sala

of Silom, this contemporary hotel offers the best

Daeng area.

of both worlds. Guests have a choice of modern, comfortable rooms with convenient amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi and daily breakfast.

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WHERE TO CELEBRATE

H O L I D AY I N N E X P R E S S B A N G K O K S O I S O O N V I J A I

WHERE TO STAY

Holiday Inn Express Bangkok Soi Soonvijai Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with

WHERE TO CELEBRATE

Sanam Luang To experience the traditional elegance of Songkran, guests can take a taxi to the historic Rattanakosin area. Join the locals in Sanam Luang park as they respectfully sprinkle water on an image of Buddha.

green stays, surrounded by local attractions and international hospitals. Enjoy comfortable bedding, complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi, workout in the fitness centre or unwind in the zen rooftop garden – an oasis of Thai tranquillity.

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H O L I D AY I N N E X P R E S S B A N G K O K S U K H U M V I T 1 1

WHERE TO STAY

Holiday Inn Express Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 This smart hotel is nestled in heart of downtown Bangkok’s lively Sukhumvit area. Head out and explore the area’s shops during the day, or discover world-class restaurants, bars and nightlife after dark. Guests can also stay fit with stunning views at the hotel’s 24-hour rooftop fitness centre.

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WHERE TO CELEBRATE

Sukhumvit Bangkok’s most popular downtown district, Sukhumvit is a great place for visitors to experience the many wonders of Songkran. Join in the fun, or simply relax in the bars and restaurants of Soi 11.

H O L I D AY I N N E X P R E S S P H U K E T PAT O N G B E A C H C E N T R A L

WHERE TO STAY

WHERE TO CELEBRATE

Holiday Inn Express Bangla Road Phuket Patong Beach Central

Patong’s Bangla Road is a lively street at any time of year, but during Songkran it really comes to life! Discover the annual beauty pageant and an

Perfectly positioned in Patong, Phuket’s most popular tourist area, this modern hotel is

amazing water party, accompanied by music and dancing.

surrounded by vibrant attractions including Bangla Road and the Jungceylon Shopping Mall. Wake up with daily breakfast, cool off in the outdoor pool or stay in shape at the 24-hour fitness centre.

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THE OUTPOST HOTEL, SINGAPORE

WIN!

3D2N Stay at The Outpost Hotel worth SGD630

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THE OUTPOST HOTEL, SINGAPORE

The Outpost Hotel, Singapore Elevated above the crowds on Sentosa Island, The Outpost Hotel reflects Singapore’s rich history and exciting future.

The 193 rooms feature a black and white palette inspired by the city’s heritage, while also being packed with cutting-edge amenities including Nespresso machines, smart TVs, customised minibars and free Wi-Fi. Pool, island or sea view options are available.

The pool deck is a tropical oasis with lush greenery and a series of aquatic attractions, including an adventure pool, lazy river and the Pamukkale Pool, inspired by the incredible multi-tiered thermal pools in Turkey. Alternatively, the rooftop pool and sky bar provides the perfect setting for cool cocktails or candlelit dinners, overlooking the Singapore Strait.

While Sentosa is a fantastic family destination, The Outpost Hotel allows adults to unwind in comfort and privacy. Operated by Far East Hospitality, this stunning sea-facing hotel is ideal for guests seeking the style and soul of Singapore.

WebBeds Exclusive: Read more about The Outpost Sentosa and stand a chance to win 2 nights stay.

Find out more >

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EXCLUSIVE

ENJOY EXCLUSIVE HOTEL DEALS AND SAVE UP TO 25% WHEN YOU BOOK THROUGH WEBBEDS’ BRANDS

Athens, Greece

TITANIA HOTEL Superior Room - 10% OFF (Min 2N) Booking Period: 01 - 31 March 2019 Travel Period: 01 - 31 August 2019

Mykonos Island, Greece

DIONYSOS LUXURY HOTEL MYKONOS 25% OFF Booking Period: 01 March - 30 April 2019 Travel Period: 16 May - 31 July 2019

Seoul, South Korea

IBIS STYLES AMBASSADOR SEOUL YONGSAN Up to 15% OFF Booking Period: 01 - 31 March 2019 Travel Period: 01 March - 31 August 2019

Seoul, South Korea

NOVOTEL AMBASSADOR SEOUL YONGSAN Up to 15% OFF Booking Period: 01 - 31 March 2019 Travel Period: 01 March - 31 August 2019

Koh Samui, Thailand

THE RITZ-CARLTON, KOH SAMUI 15% OFF Booking and Travel Period: 01 March – 30 June 2019

Shooting Stars: Head to the Movies in Europe Top Cities Movies have a magical ability to transport us to exotic, faraway lands. As we watch, we are immersed in the beautiful on-screen world, fulfilling our fantasies of global travel and adventure without even leaving the comfort of our living room or local cinema.

But for many fans, watching the film simply isn’t enough. One of the biggest modern travel trends is movie tourism, as travellers follow in the footsteps of their favourite actors and visit places where the movies were filmed. With its wealth of historical cities and world-famous landmarks, Europe is the perfect place to experience the film tourism.

Many seminal movie moments have been shot against the backdrop of Europe’s most famous iconic urban landscapes. From the cultural symbols of Paris to the historic heart of London and the famous fountains of Rome, travellers can soak up the rich culture of the world’s most enchanting cities, while also imagining themselves lighting up the silver screen.

Here’s WebBeds’ guide to Europe’s best movie tourism destinations:

LONDON Ever since the first Harry Potter movie was released, London has been the spiritual home of the world’s wizarding community. The latest instalment of this magical series, Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, once again returns to the UK capital, as Albus Dumbledore and Newt Scamander (played by Jude Law and Eddie Redmayne respectively) meet on the roof of St Paul’s Cathedral. This breath-taking building has dominated London’s skyline for over 300 years and remains a captivating attraction today.

FANTASTIC BEASTS: THE CRIME OF GRINDELWALD

G R A N G E S T P A U L’ S H O T E L

WHERE TO STAY

Grange St Paul’s Hotel Nestled in the heart of The City, London’s historic business district, this five-star hotel puts guests on the doorstep of St Paul’s Cathedral. The hotel’s contemporary glass interior presents a wonderful contrast to its historic neighbour, and guests can discover an array of bars and restaurants, a spa and health club.

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S T PA N C R A S R E N A I S S A N C E H O T E L L O N D O N

WHERE TO STAY

St Pancras Renaissance Hotel London Perfectly positioned next to St Pancras Station, London’s Eurostar rail hub, St Pancras Renaissance Hotel puts the whole of London - and Europe - on your doorstep.

Originally opened in 1873, this five-star hotel features an indoor pool, spa, gym and the atmospheric Booking Office Bar & Restaurant.

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PARIS The unique 2006 movie Paris, je t’aime was the cinematic equivalent of a love letter to the French capital. Each of the 18 short films that make up this two-hour masterpiece was based on one of Paris’ arrondissements, enabling the movie to showcase the whole of the city. Nestled in the 16th arrondissement, across the River Seine from the Eiffel Tower, the Trocadéro reflects the romantic ambience of the city. Guests can stroll among the gardens, ponds and fountains, soaking up the spirit of “l’amore”.

PARIS JET’AIME

T H E P E N I N S U L A PA R I S

WHERE TO STAY

The Peninsula Paris Enter a world of romance and luxury at The Peninsula Paris. Just steps from the Arc de Triomphe and surrounded by the city’s leading landmarks, this graceful hotel has many stand-out features, including haute couture-themed suites, an exquisite spa and L’Oiseau Blanc restaurant, which overlooks the Eiffel Tower.

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HOTEL LUTETIA

WHERE TO STAY

Hotel Lutetia Situated in the vibrant Saint-Germain-des-PrĂŠs area of Paris, Hotel Lutetia has been at the heart of the community for over 100 years. Originally opened in 1910, this art deco landmark now features luxurious rooms and suites, an eclectic mix of restaurants including the famed Lutetia Brasserie, and an elegant spa.

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ROME With its heartfelt storyline and exquisite cinematography, the 2010 movie Eat Pray Love starring Julia Roberts has been a blessing for tourism boards all over the world. In Rome, travellers have been inspired to fulfil their desire for self-discovery and gastronomy, which featured prominently in the film. Visitors should head to Piazza Navona, which dates from the 15th Century and offers plenty of opportunities for travellers to satisfy their cultural and culinary appetites.

EAT PRAY LOVE

H O T E L S AV O Y R O M E

WHERE TO STAY

Hotel Savoy Rome Staying at The Savoy allows guests to discover the true heart and soul of Rome. Set in an aristocratic palazzo dating to the late 1800s, this upscale hotel is surrounded by historical landmarks. The 120 rooms are elegant and well-equipped, while the rooftop terrace is a refined setting to unwind after a day of discovery.

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T H E PA N T H E O N I C O N I C R O M E H O T E L , AU T O G R A P H C O L L E C T I O N

WHERE TO STAY

The Pantheon Iconic Rome Hotel, Autograph Collection The Pantheon Iconic Rome is a five-star boutique hotel that puts guests just steps away from must-see sites such as Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain and of course, the ancient Pantheon. The 79 rooms blend modern amenities with traditional materials like marble and porcelain, while facilities include a stunning alfresco terrace.

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PRAGUE The 2006 movie Casino Royale marked a reboot of the James Bond movie franchise. One of the main filming locations, Prague was given a similar boost as Daniel Craig brought his cool, sophisticated style to the historic heart of the Czech capital. Visitors can follow in 007’s footsteps with a stroll along the Vltava River or a trip to the Letna district, which is becoming a hot spot for young hipsters.

Movie fans can also head to the town of Karlovy Vary, which houses the exterior of the Casino Royale.

CASINO ROYALE

THREE STORKS

WHERE TO STAY

Three Storks Reflecting the ancient and modern faces of Prague, Three Storks is luxury boutique hotel with a preserved Renaissance faรงade and design-led interiors. Nestled in peaceful Mala Strana (Lesser Town), overlooked by Prague Castle, this stylish hotel offers modern rooms and amenities, plus a restaurant and bar.

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V E N TA NA H O T E L P R A G U E

WHERE TO STAY

Ventana Hotel Prague Discover the historical heart of Prague at Ventana Hotel, which is located in the Old Town Square, next to Tyn Cathedral. This art nouveau boutique hotel offers just 29 rooms and suites, plus the Ventana Bar which is impressively situated in a five storey-atrium, and The Library, an elegant lounge and reading area.

WebBeds Special: Early Bird Offer – 7% off contracted rates when you book 30 days in advance. Valid from 1 Apr to 20 Dec 2019

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ATHENS The 2009 romantic comedy, My Life in Ruins focused on the life and loves of a Greek tour guide in Athens, played by Nia Vardalos.

In such an historic and sought-after city, where ancient attractions such as the Acropolis draw thousands of visitors every day, this hilarious film shined a new light on the tourism industry. Guests in the Greek capital should, of course, enjoy the city’s major sites.

But after watching this movie, they may shun the souvenirs and develop a new-found respect for their guide!

MY LIFE IN RUINS

R A M A DA AT T I C A R I V I E R A

WHERE TO STAY

Ramada Attica Riviera Located in the Mati area, 25km from the historic centre of Athens, this new upscale seafront hotel is a great place for guests who want to unwind in peace, quiet and comfort. The rooms offer mountain or sea views, and facilities include an inviting outdoor pool and deck, serene spa and a bright restaurant.

WebBeds Special: 20% off all bookings from now until 30 Apr 2019, for stays from 1 May to 30 Jun 2019. Only applicable for these following markets : Australia, New Zealand, China, Japan and Korea.

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N J V AT H E N S P L A Z A

WHERE TO STAY

NJV Athens Plaza The luxurious NJV Athens Plaza is nestled in Syntagma Square in the city’s historical heart, very close to the ancient city. Stay in a choice of 162 contemporary rooms and suites, many of which offer spectacular views of the Acropolis, or dine at a dazzling collection of F&B outlets, including a British-style bar.

WebBeds Special: Stay 4 nights and pay for 3 for deluxe rooms and suites, valid from now until 30 Apr 2019 for stays from 1 Jul to 25 Aug 2019. Reservations via DOTW only.

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www.StayFarE ast.com/FarMoreSingapore

CELEBRATING OUR FIFTH YEAR IN PROVIDING AUTHENTIC LOCAL EXPERIENCES, THIS YEAR’S ‘FAR MORE SINGAPORE 2019’ PACKAGE OFFERS:

1 Guaranteed Late Check-Out Till 6pm

3

2

$5 Old Chang Kee Food Voucher Per Room

$5 Ya Kun Kaya Toast Food Voucher Per Room

5

4

1 Customised Tote Bag

1 Customised Lunch Bag

WITH ACCOMMODATION OF YOUR CHOICE AT A FAR EAST HOSPITALITY HOTEL: Oasia Hotel Downtown, Singapore • Oasia Hotel Novena, Singapore • The Quincy Hotel Orchard Rendezvous Hotel, Singapore • Rendezvous Hotel, Singapore • Village Hotel Albert Court Village Hotel Bugis • Village Hotel Changi • Village Hotel Katong • AMOY • The Elizabeth Hotel Validity Period

1 April 2019 to 31 March 2020

Terms & Conditions: • Minimum two-nights’ stay is required at all hotels except Village Hotel Changi.

• Additional charges will apply over closed-out dates at the respective hotels.

T H E P U X UA N H O T E L A N D S PA

The PuXuan Hotel and Spa Beijing has become one of Asia’s most avant-garde cities for art, architecture and design. Nestled deep in its historical centre, The PuXuan Hotel and Spa reflects the contemporary face of China’s capital.

This blue-hued cubist gem features 116 spacious rooms and suites, all equipped with state-of-the-art amenities and many offering uninterrupted views of the Forbidden City. Dining is similarly diverse, with five F&B outlets including French bistro, an authentic Chinese restaurant and a Tea Lounge with private tasting zones and a tea laboratory.

The PuXuan Club has the feel of a townhouse apartment, with living and dining areas, meeting rooms, outdoor spaces, a library and kitchen.

Alternatively, guests can enjoy a soothing treatment at UR Spa or workout on Technogym machines at the fitness centre.

With its dramatic architecture, exceptional facilities and intuitive service, The PuXuan Hotel and Spa epitomises the progressive mindset of this dynamic city.

Exclusive to FIT Rewards members, read more about the property and stand a chance to win 2 nights stay.

Find out more >

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T H E P U X UA N H O T E L A N D S PA

WIN! 3D2N Stay

Worth up to CNY5,000

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Asia Means Business Asia is driving global business. Home to the world’s largest populations, burgeoning economies and breath-taking infrastructure projects, this dynamic region is no longer “emerging” - it has already arrived on the world stage.

This is reflected by the boom of business travel within the region; China is already the world’s largest corporate travel market, having overtaken the USA several years ago, and India and Indonesia are the fastest-growing business travel markets worldwide. With the strong projected growth of the ASEAN bloc and the proliferation of intra-regional air links, cross-border business travel is set to soar in the coming years.

Wherever the region’s executives and entrepreneurs choose to travel, they will need intuitive and wellequipped accommodation to meet their needs.

Here is WebBeds’ guide to the best corporate hotels in five of the region’s most vibrant business hubs: Bangkok, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

BANGKOK

BANGKOK The world’s most-visited city, Bangkok is evolving rapidly from a leisure and shopping destination into a dynamic business travel hub. The development of urban mass transport is also making it easier to get around this bustling metropolis.

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GRANDE CENTRE POINT PLOENCHIT

Recommended Business Hotel

Grande Centre Point Ploenchit Grande Centre Point Ploenchit offers convenience and value for business professionals, with an unsurpassed location close to Ploenchit BTS skytrain station in downtown Bangkok. The rooms are large and offer free Wi-Fi and private balconies, while the outdoor swimming pool, spa and fitness centre will keep corporate guests refreshed. Five modern meeting spaces are also available.

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HONG KONG

HONG KONG Asia’s most iconic business city is riding the crest of a wave. Now fully connected to China, the world’s biggest business travel market, Hong Kong will be at the forefront of Asia’s economic growth for many decades to come.

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THE KOWLO ON HOTEL

Recommended Business Hotel

The Kowloon Hotel The Kowloon Hotel is an outstanding business hotel located close to Victoria Harbour. The 736 rooms and suites with working desks and free Wi-Fi allow guests to stay connected, while the Harbour Club Lounge, business centre and function rooms provide full support for corporate travellers. The hotel’s position on top of MTR Tsimshatsui Station also makes it easy for guests to get around the city.

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JA K A RTA

JAKARTA The capital of ASEAN’s largest country, Jakarta is at the heart of this buoyant region’s economic boom.

According to GBTA forecasts, Indonesia will be the world’s second fastest growing business travel market over the next five years.

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H O T E L I N D O N E S IA K E M P I N S K I JA K A RTA

Recommended Business Hotel

Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta A landmark in Central Jakarta, Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta is perfectly positioned for the city’s rising number of business travellers.

With 289 luxurious rooms and suites, an executive lounge, 13 state-of-theart meeting rooms and a full range of professional services, guests have everything they need at their fingertips. Two lavish ballrooms also enable companies to host spectacular conferences.

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K UA L A LU M P U R

KUALA LUMPUR With its soaring skyline, crowned by the iconic Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur came to symbolise the Asian economic boom. Exceptional air transport links make Malaysia’s capital one of the ASEAN region’s best-connected business hubs.

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PA R K R O YA L K UA L A L U M P U R

Recommended Business Hotel

PARKROYAL Kuala Lumpur Nestled in the downtown district of Bukit Bintang, PARKROYAL Kuala Lumpur puts business travellers in the heart of the action. A choice of rooms and suites ensure that corporate guests can stay comfortable and connected, while the exclusive Orchid Club Lounge features an array of additional amenities. A collection of 14 meeting rooms creates options for every type of corporate gathering.

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SINGAPORE

SINGAPORE Singapore is a global hub of trade and commerce – a strategic seaport that has successfully transformed into a fast-paced financial capital. One of Asia’s original “tiger economies”, the city is still roaring as the ASEAN region’s corporate capital.

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G R A N D C O P T H O R N E WA T E R F R O N T H O T E L

Recommended Business Hotel

Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel is highly convenient for corporate travellers. Just 10 minutes from the CBD and 22km from Changi International Airport, this impressive hotel puts guests on the doorstep of the city’s major business areas, including Raffles Place and Marina Bay. The waterfront setting also provides an idyllic spot for meetings, with 34 naturally-lit function rooms and a 1,000-guest ballroom.

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WEBBEDS DRIVES WEBJET TO RECORD FIRST HALF PERFORMANCE

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WEBBEDS DRIVES WEBJET TO RECORD FIRST HALF PERFORMANCE

WebBeds Drives Webjet to Record First Half Performance Webjet Limited posted a record set of results for

“Our WebBeds business continues to consolidate

the first half of the 2018-19 financial year (1H19),

its position as the #2 global B2B player and is now

including strong double-digit growth in terms

delivering significant EBITDA growth. Following

of revenue and profits. In the six months to 31

the acquisitions of JacTravel and more recently

December 2018, the company’s revenue climbed

Destinations of the World (DOTW), our increased

33% to $175.3 million, while EBITDA surged 42%

global size and scale means we have been able

to $58 million and net profit jumped 61% to

to shift our focus from growing market share to

$38.3 million. This was driven by a 29% rise in

pursuing more profitable growth. As a result, we

total transaction volume (TTV), which reached an

saw increased TTV and EBITDA margins in all

impressive $1.9 billion.

regions,” Mr Guscic said.

The first half also saw WebBeds emerge as the

WebBeds’ global bookings surged 50% to 1.58

company’s largest business unit for the first time,

million and TTV exceeded $1 billion. Revenue

in terms of EBITDA. Boosted by strong growth in

jumped 72% to $85.1 million. As a result, WebBeds

Europe and the Middle East, WebBeds’ EBITDA

is now the market leader in the Middle East and

more than doubled year-on year, from $12.8million

Africa and continues to demonstrate strong growth

in 1H18 to $30.1million in 1H19.

in all other regions, including Asia Pacific.

John Guscic, Webjet Ltd’s Managing Director, called the 1H19 performance “another outstanding result for our business”.

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I N SI DE R I N T E RV I EW W I T H V I V IA N SU NG

Insider Interview with Vivian Sung Vivian Sung Operations Manager, South Asia WebBeds

Following WebBeds’ recent highprofile mergers and acquisitions, it was important to streamline operational procedures to ensure that the company remains wellorganised and efficient.

In this edition of Travel Aggregator, we chat with Vivian Sung, WebBeds’ Operations Manager for South Asia, about

Our local operations team in India: From left: Akshansh, Aring, Ranjana, Ashish, Himanshu, Akash, Dinesh

how the company provides bespoke service to hundreds of

Q) With various brands under

brands, allowing us to achieve

partners and clients in multiple

the WebBeds Group, how would

faster response times and

countries, across a series of

clients in the Asia-Pacific region

increased efficiency across

different brands and time zones.

find the correct team for the

our business. We are able to

appropriate support?

provide support to our clients in a multiple local languages,

We have streamlined our

including English, Bahasa,

operations support teams intofive

Cantonese, Japanese, Korean,

hubs: Taipei, Hong Kong, Seoul,

Mandarin, Thai and Tamil.

Gurgaon, and our largest hub, Jakarta. Each of these centres Sandy Ku & Sasa Lin Our operations duo in Taiwan

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supports all of WebBeds’

I N SI DE R I N T E RV I EW W I T H V I V IA N SU NG

Our local operations team in Indonesia: From left: Eklevina, Hestianah, Jihan, Irma, Yelly, Victa, Orlin, Vanessa, Devi, Devina Guys from left: Gali, Bima

Q) You mentioned that the biggest hub is in Jakarta, any reason why in Jakarta?

We saw great potential in Jakarta, which has pools of talent we never thought we could find. We launched with only three staff to handle Indonesia, but within a year we had expanded to almost

Our local operations team in South Korea: From left: Elena Kim, Rosa Kim, Chloe Kim, Sara Cho, Sam Kang

20 staff. The team now supports South Asia, the Pacific region and Japan (with a dedicated

teams that work across the whole

Q) How does the WebBeds cope

Japanese-speaking staff). We

region, allowing our support hubs

with the various time zones in

have also added administrative

to focus on servicing our clients.

Asia Pacific?

“It is really impressive that

Our local operations team in Hong Kong: From left: Carol, Monie, Kathleen, Patrick

We have a 24-hour client support hotline, managed by our Jakarta

WebBeds operations in

and India hubs, to ensure that

Indonesia are able to support

our Asia Pacific clients can

our Japanese client’s needs

receive assistance regardless of

and the response to our

their different time zone. Our

inquiries are very prompt.”

- Akira Yoshizawa, Senior

Manager from Hotelskip, Japan

clients can call local contact numbers to get in touch with our operations team, eliminating the need for costly international calls.

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WEBBEDS BRINGS FRESH COLOUR TO ASIAN OFFICES

WebBeds brings fresh colour to Asian offices WebBeds has started 2019 on a bright note, with the refurbishment of three of its Asian offices. The company’s facilities in Singapore, China and India have all been given a modern makeover, with sleek working areas, interwoven technology, natural light and plenty of green open spaces. All offices also now feature the latest WebBeds branding and splashes of the company’s distinctive red colour scheme.

With our revamped offices, WebBeds will be able to provide the best possible service to our clients and partners all across Asia.

A breath of fresh air in the Singapore office.

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WEBBEDS BRINGS FRESH COLOUR TO ASIAN OFFICES

Our bright and airy office space in Gurgaon India!

Our China team has moved into a new exciting location – SOHO 2!

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DISCOVER THE WONDERS OF KYUSHU

Discover the Wonders of Kyushu The most south-westerly of Japan’s main islands,

Peace Park shine a light on the island’s tragic past.

Kyushu is a spectacular subtropical paradise.

For guests who want to uncover another side of

Discover an exotic landscape of active volcanoes,

Japan, away from the bright lights and bustling

sandy beaches, lush forests and hot springs, or

streets of Tokyo, Kyushu opens up exciting new

explore exquisite cultural attractions including

opportunities for adventure.

ancient Shinto shrines. The dynamic port city of

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Fukuoka represents the modern face of Japan,

Kyushu is even easier to explore with a JR Kyushu

while Nagasaki’s Atomic Bomb Museum and

Rail Pass - now available with WebBeds!

DISCOVER THE WONDERS OF KYUSHU

Validity

Traveller's Price

Seat Reservation Limit

3-days

짜15,000

10 Times

(Child 짜7,500) 5 days

짜18,000

16 Times

(Child 짜9,000)

Prices are quoted in Japanese Yen. Child is between age 6 to 11 years old.

For booking & enquiry, please email to rail@fitruums.com.

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Contact sales@fitruums.com for any enquiries