Travel Aggregator (November + December 2024)​

APAC Newsletter

NOVEMBER + DECEMBER 2024

Discover the Tropical Wonders of the Maldives

All-Year-Round Adventures in Asia

Eat Your Way Through Singapore

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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

FOREWORD Welcome to Travel Aggregator, WebBeds’ monthly newsletter dedicated to our travel trade friends, partners and colleagues in Asia Pacific. This will be our final edition of 2024, so we would like to thank you all for your wonderful support over the last 12 months.

But we are not looking back – we are planning ahead for even more exciting adventures in 2025! In this edition, we showcase the best opportunities for year-round travel in Asia Pacific. So, whatever the coming months bring, we can help to inspire your escapes in every season.

JOSEPHINE LIM Vice President, Commercial Development, APAC Josephine.Lim@webbeds.com CELES YAP Country Manager, Malaysia Celes.Yap@webbeds.com JINTANA PORNTANAPAT General Manager, Thailand and Indochina Jintana.Porntanapat@webbeds.com

WebBeds will also shine a spotlight on two of the region’s most dazzling destinations, with special features on the Maldives and Pattaya, Thailand.

JOHN STUCCI Regional Vice President, Indonesia, India & Pacific John.Stucci@webbeds.com

Couples and families seeking an exotic holiday in the Indian Ocean can take a closer look at four of the Maldives’ most outstanding private island resorts, including the best things to see and do in this enchanting archipelago.

JOY HUANG Regional Vice President, China Joy.Huang@webbeds.com

And we are delighted to announce the latest phase of our award-winning partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). “Pattaya Unplugged” is a brand-new video that reveals what visitors “Must Taste”, “Must Try”, “Must Buy”, “Must Seek”, and “Must See” during their trip to this vibrant Thai resort town, as well as a curated selection of “Must Stay” hotels and resorts.

LINDA KIM General Manager, South Korea Linda.Kim@webbeds.com

“Eat Your Way Through…” will transport you on a culinary tour of Singapore. With expert insights on where to dine and what to eat, including the city’s iconic hawker stalls and Michelin-rated venues, this is your complete guide to the food scene in the Lion City.

This month, our “Featured Hotel” is Bali’s legendary Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel, “Newly Opened” visits Nikko Style Niseko Hanazono, the perfect base for all-year-round getaways in Hokkaido, and of course, you can catch up with all the latest news, photos and exclusive offers from WebBeds in Asia Pacific.

PETER LEE General Manager, Japan Peter.Lee@webbeds.com VENUS CHAN General Manager, Hong Kong and Taiwan Venus.Chan@webbeds.com

We hope you had a fantastic 2024 and look forward to working side-by-side with you again in the year ahead.

Happy holidays!

@WebBedsAPAC

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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All-year-round adventures in Singapore

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NIKKO ST YLE NISEKO HANAZONO

Nikko Style Niseko Hanazono

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NEWLY OPENED

NIKKO ST YLE NISEKO HANAZONO

Travellers to Niseko, the winter sports paradise on Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido, will soon be able to stay at a brand-new, contemporary midscale hotel: Nikko Style Niseko Hanazono.

Opening in mid-December 2024, this stylish property is perfectly positioned in Hanazono, one of Niseko’s four distinct resort areas, and features a choice of rooms and suites, including king, twin, family and suite options, all featuring smart TVs, AI speakers, air purifiers and original bathroom amenities. For truly elevated escapes, the Nikko Style Suite includes a stunning rooftop lounge and balcony, overlooking the mountains.

Days can start with a fulfilling breakfast at Style Kitchen, which also serves Japanese and international à la carte cuisine throughout the day, or with a freshlybrewed coffee. For guests staying in the Deluxe and Studio Suites, the Nikko Club Lounge is an exclusive sanctuary, and the Café & Bar is the perfect place to sip locally-brewed beverages.

Adventure seekers have access to a wealth of outdoor activities, from river rafting, trekking and cycling in the summer to snowmobiling, snowboarding and skiing in the winter (with ski lockers available at the hotel).

Guests can unwind at the onsite onsen baths, work out 24-7 at the gym, or tee-off at the nearby 18-hole golf course, which commands spectacular views of Mount Yotei.

With its prime location, modern Japanese design and intuitive amenities, Nikko Style Niseko Hanazono is the perfect base for an alpine vacation at any time of year.

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Discover the Tropical Wonders of the Maldives A sparkling collection of island jewels studded in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is a pure paradise on Earth. This tropical archipelago promises the ultimate blend of privacy, luxury and exclusivity, with breath-taking accommodation and a wealth of activities on land and at sea.

There is no better time to visit the Maldives than November to April, when the skies are clear and the seas are calm, creating the perfect conditions for diving, water sports and offshore exploration – including the chance to uncover the rich Maldivian culture. So, pack your bags for an enchanting adventure in the Maldives!

BARCELÓ WHALE LAGO ON MALDIVES

Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives Atoll: South Ari Atoll | Island: Bodufinolhu Island Feel the embrace of nature at this chic island retreat, which is named for the magnificent marine life that lives offshore. Nestled amid turquoise waters, white sand and coral gardens, the resort features just 100 suites and villas, three exceptional restaurants, a beach club, and extensive facilities, including a huge 37-metre-long pool. Spa treatments, yoga and Pilates calm the soul, a choice of water sports invigorate the body, and interactions with marine giants such as whale sharks and manta rays are sure to inspire the imagination.

Malé International Airport: 30 mins by seaplane

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BARCELÓ WHALE LAGO ON MALDIVES

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D IA M O N D S AT H U RU G A M A L D I V E S

Diamonds Athuruga Maldives Atoll: South Ari Atoll | Island: Athuruga Island Glistening like a diamond in the stunning South Ari Atoll, this five-star resort is a haven of tranquility.

Discerning guests can stay in beautiful beach bungalows or overwater villas, enjoy soothing therapies and Ayurvedic massages at the spa, feel the ocean spray with water sports, uncover the underwater world at the diving centre, or dine at a choice of exceptional restaurants, including Thila, a thatched teppanyaki restaurant, and Thari, which is perched over the lagoon and showcases creative international flavours.

Malé International Airport: 20 mins by seaplane

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D IA M O N D S AT H U RU G A M A L D I V E S

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DIAMONDS THUDUFUSHI

Diamonds Thudufushi Atoll: South Ari Atoll | Island: Thudufushi Island An intimate oasis in the South Ari Atoll, Diamonds Thudufushi is a boutique retreat that features just 69 beachfront suites and water villas, all adorned with elegant Italian interiors and luxury amenities.

Curious explorers can feel immersed in the nature and culture of the Maldives, with unique facilities including a gallery showcasing Indian Ocean artists, a fashion boutique, local handicrafts, cooking classes, marine biologist evenings, a dive centre, guided snorkelling tours, and complimentary excursions to a nearby fishing community.

Malé International Airport: 25 mins by seaplane

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DIAMONDS THUDUFUSHI

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T H E S T A N D A R D H U R U VA L H I M A L D I V E S

The Standard Huruvalhi Maldives Atoll: Raa Atoll | Island: Huruvalhi Island The Standard Hotels has introduced its trend-setting style of boutique hospitality to the Maldives with this playful private island retreat in the pristine Raa Atoll. With 115 overwater or beachfront pool villas, a protected house reef, an inflatable water park, innovative dining destinations, three chic bars and The Standard Spa with its communal hammam, aroma steam room and daily yoga classes, it is little wonder that The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives was named as one of the “Best Hotels in the Maldives”

by Condé Nast Traveller.

Malé International Airport: 40 mins by seaplane / 30-min flight to Dharavandhoo + 25-min speedboat ride

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T H E S T A N D A R D H U R U VA L H I M A L D I V E S

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All-Year-

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ge for inspiring adventures in every season.

BANGKOK Thailand’s charismatic capital is the ultimate all-yearround destination. The warm, dry winter months present the perfect opportunity to head outdoors and explore the mesmerizing markets, spiritual temples and sizzling street food, while the city’s glittering retail malls and five-star hotel facilities are ideal for those hot or rainy summer days. For revellers who don’t mind getting wet, April’s Songkran water festival is a great way to soak up the Thai culture!

C A R LT O N H O T E L BA N G KO K S U K H U M V I T

RECOMMENDED HOTEL:

Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit puts guests in the beating heart of the city, surrounded by shops, restaurants and attractions. The 338 rooms & suites offer five-star comfort, while the 30-metre outdoor pool, spa, fitness studio and kids’ club let all ages unwind in style. For keen foodies, the hotel’s Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant has been listed in the Michelin Guide for three consecutive years, and the rooftop bar sets the stage for unforgettable evenings.

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C A R LT O N H O T E L BA N G KO K S U K H U M V I T

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HOKKAIDO With its pure air and spectacular scenery, Japan’s northern island is a breath-taking destination. In the winter, skiers and snowboarders can hit the slopes at Niseko. Then, as the snow melts away, the rolling landscapes burst into life with spring’s beautiful blossoms, Furano’s famous flower fields in the summer, and the rich red and gold tapestry of autumn. A haven of fresh produce and outdoor adventure, Hokkaido is a year-round natural paradise.

L A’ G E N T S T A Y S A P P O R O O D O R I

RECOMMENDED HOTEL:

La’gent Stay Sapporo Odori La’gent Stay Sapporo Odori offers contemporary upscale stays in the heart of Hokkaido's largest city, right next to Odori Park, which hosts the world famous Sapporo Snow Festival every February and cherry blossom in the spring. The diverse rooms cater to couples or families alike, and the stylish restaurant serves Japanese and Western cuisine. Guests can warm up at the traditional hotspring spa or chill out and socialise with fellow travellers at the gallery space.

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L A’ G E N T S T A Y S A P P O R O O D O R I

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HONG KONG Hong Kong is famed for its dynamic street life and sparkling skyline – especially on the Victoria Harbour waterfront. Within this iconic Asian metropolis, travellers can discover world-class retail malls, a lively arts scene, and enticing culinary delights, from street-side stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants.

Lunar New Year creates a colourful cultural spectacle, and the network of hiking trails provides plenty of opportunities to escape the city during the milder months.

ISLAND SHANGRI-LA, HONG KONG

RECOMMENDED HOTEL:

Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong is a sophisticated fivestar sanctuary in Central, surrounded by attractions and directly linked to the Pacific Place retail mall.

The 544 spacious rooms & suites are adorned with elegant Asian-inspired décor, and eight exceptional restaurants and bars include Restaurant Petrus, the dramatic 56th floor fine-dining destination. Guests have myriad ways to relax, including a swimming pool, kids’ water play zone and Yun Wellness spa.

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ISLAND SHANGRI-LA, HONG KONG

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SINGAPORE With its year-round tropical climate and an unparalleled array of modern and cultural wonders, Singapore is a destination that never fails to impress.

Visitors can shop till they drop on Orchard Road, uncover the rich heritage of Chinatown and Little India, stroll through the UNESCO-listed Botanic Gardens, or experience the dazzling waterfront attractions of Marina Bay. Don’t miss vibrant events like July’s Singapore Food Festival or December’s Christmas illuminations.

NOVOTEL SINGAPORE ON STEVENS

RECOMMENDED HOTEL:

Novotel Singapore on Stevens Novotel Singapore on Stevens is an urban sanctuary in the heart of the Lion City. Perfectly positioned close to Orchard Road and the Singapore Botanic Gardens, this modern upscale hotel features 254 comfortable and fully-equipped rooms & suites, plus a wide range of leisure facilities including a tennis court, 24-hour gym and two pools. Diners can enjoy casual cuisine at Food Exchange and grab refreshments throughout the day and evening at L’Apéritif.

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NOVOTEL SINGAPORE ON STEVENS

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Pattaya Unplugged:

Must Do Activities in Thailand’s Tourism Hotspot Nestled on a beautiful crescent-shaped bay on Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard, Pattaya has long been a popular destination for local residents and expats in Bangkok, which lies just 1.5 hours’ drive away. Now, this vibrant seaside town has evolved into a world-class tourism hotspot with a wealth of things to see, do and experience for all ages.

WebBeds is proud to unveil the latest phase of our award-winning partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT): “Pattaya Unplugged”, a brand-new video that reveals what visitors “Must Taste”, “Must Try”, “Must Buy”, “Must Seek”, and “Must See” during their trip to Pattaya, as well as the city’s “Must Stay” hotels and resorts.

In collaboration with:

PA T TAYA U N P L U G G E D : M U S T D O A C T I V I T I E S I N T H A I L A N D ’ S T O U R I S M H O T S P O T

Pattaya’s “Must Do” Experiences In tandem with the TAT’s “5 Must Do in Thailand” campaign, WebBeds is proud to reveal our unmissable activities and attractions in this dazzling destination. Whether visitors want a fun-filled vacation, foodie adventure, soothing spa retreat, shopping escape or cultural discovery, Pattaya is the perfect option for every occasion.

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PA T TAYA U N P L U G G E D : M U S T D O A C T I V I T I E S I N T H A I L A N D ’ S T O U R I S M H O T S P O T

Travellers who want to uncover Pattaya’s colourful nightlife “Must See” the Colosseum Cabaret Show, which is staged in a spectacular Roman-style theatre, while coffee lovers “Must Taste” the freshly-brewed local coffee at Shaloba by the Sea, and wellness seekers “Must Try” a Thai massage at Devarana Wellness, the serene spa at Dusit Thani Pattaya. Immersive retail therapy can be enjoyed at Ang Sila Old Market, where shoppers “Must Buy” authentic arts & crafts, including locally-made pestles & mortars. Finally, guests who crave spiritual experiences “Must Seek” Koh Sichang, an idyllic offshore island which is home to the enchanting Chao Pho Khao Yai Shrine.

Need more inspiration? Watch the Pattaya Unplugged video from WebBeds and the TAT to explore more of this enthralling, action-packed destination.

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PA T TAYA U N P L U G G E D : M U S T D O A C T I V I T I E S I N T H A I L A N D ’ S T O U R I S M H O T S P O T

R E C O M M E N D E D

S T A Y S

I N

P A T T A Y A

Avani Pattaya Resort Avani Pattaya Resort is a tropical playground that infuses a sense of fun and glamour into the guest experience. Nestled directly on Beach Road, just 50 metres from the shore and adjacent to a lifestyle mall and Ripley’s Believe It or Not, this upbeat resort features a collection of magic-themed rooms and family villas, a tropical pool garden, kids’ club, spa, hydroponic farm, and diverse dining venues including Benihana, the iconic teppanyaki restaurant.

Dusit Thani Pattaya Dusit Thani Pattaya brings the essence of gracious Thai hospitality to this vibrant destination. Lapped by the sea at the north end of Pattaya’s crescentshaped sandy beach, just moments from multiple shopping centres, this five-star hotel features spacious rooms & suites ranging from 40 to 160 square metres, a private beach, outdoor pool, and Devarana Wellness spa. World-class cuisine with panoramic vistas can be savoured at The Bay.

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PA T TAYA U N P L U G G E D : M U S T D O A C T I V I T I E S I N T H A I L A N D ’ S T O U R I S M H O T S P O T

R E C O M M E N D E D

S T A Y S

I N

P A T T A Y A

Grande Centre Point Pattaya Grande Centre Point Pattaya offers elevated stays in the heart of the city’s main retail area. Directly connected to the Terminal 21 lifestyle mall, this fivestar tower rises 32 storeys and frames panoramic views of the skyline and sea from its sleek rooms and suites, all of which feature floor-to-ceiling windows.

Kids can make a splash in the water park, while sophisticated evenings can be enjoyed at The Sky 32, the sparkling rooftop restaurant.

Veranda Resort Pattaya Na Jomtien – MGallery Veranda Resort Pattaya Na Jomtien – MGallery brings the boutique style of Accor’s MGallery Collection to Na Jomtien, the quieter side of Pattaya’s sun-soaked shoreline. Set directly on the beach with sea and sunset views, this elegant retreat features 145 bright and contemporary rooms, suites and pool villas with designer furnishings, plus inviting turquoise pools and creative culinary venues, including rooftop dining at Isea Sky and The Jetty.

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G R A N D PA R K C I T Y H A L L

WHERE TO STAY:

Grand Park City Hall Grand Park City Hall is perfectly positioned for foodies.

Nestled in Singapore’s Civic District, surrounded by hawker centres, restaurants and bars, including the trendy CHJMES complex, this five-star hotel blends colonial charm with contemporary style. Tablescape Restaurant & Spa is a stylish place to savour refined European cuisine, artisanal cocktails, fine wines and craft beers.

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N O S TA L G IA B O U T I Q U E H O T E L

WHERE TO STAY:

Nostalgia Boutique Hotel Nostalgia Boutique Hotel is an elegant and intimate property that puts guests on the doorstep of the everpopular Tiong Bahru Market, which dates from the 1950s and contains some of the city’s most iconic hawker stalls and fresh produce. The Zion Hawker Center is also withing walking distance. The hotel itself houses 48 heritage-inspired rooms and a 3rd floor outdoor pool.

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OASIA HOTEL D OWNTOWN

WHERE TO STAY:

Oasia Hotel Downtown Oasia Hotel Downtown is a striking upscale hotel in the heart of the CBD. Designed by WOHA architecture studio, this 27-storey tropical skyscraper features vertical gardens and verdant terraces. Guests can dine at an Italian ristorante or modern bistro, sip G&Ts at a gin bar, or head out to the nearby Maxwell Food Centre, which is home to Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice.

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PA R K R O YA L C O L L E C T I O N P I C K E R I N G

WHERE TO STAY:

PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering is an eco-friendly five-star hotel with a green façade and outstanding facilities. Located close to Chinatown and the two-storey Hong Lim Market & Food Centre, it gives hungry diners access to a wide range of flavours. The hotel’s awardwinning Lime Restaurant is a vibrant place to dine with open kitchens and plenty of sizzling seafood.

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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

Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel Bali, Indonesia Nestled directly on the shore in the heart of Kuta, Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel is one of Bali’s original integrated resorts – a comprehensive five-star complex that blends spacious accommodation with exceptional facilities and a dedicated shopping mall.

Inaugurated in 1990, this iconic property spans 10 hectares of prime seafront land, with lush tropical gardens and lagoon pools overlooking the Indian Ocean. Guests can stay in a choice of 316 rooms, suites and villas, all adorned with modern amenities and authentic Balinese elements, and dine in style at seven F&B outlets including Sokube, the elegant thatched restaurant with ocean views, and El Jardin Steakhouse, which is overseen by celebrated chef Andrea Peresthu.

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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 hotel is also a haven of fun with endless activities for all ages, such as a spa, beauty salon, fitness centre, tennis and squash courts, a playground, and kids’ club, plus a choice of refreshing outdoor pools. With plenty of indoor and alfresco event space, including a helipad, the resort sets the stage for every occasion.

For couples and families seeking an allencompassing resort experience in Bali’s main tourism hub, just five minutes’ drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport, Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel is the perfect choice.

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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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