Travel Aggregator (November + December 2021)

NOVEMBER + DECEMBER 2021

Dubai & Expo 2020: Fun for the Whole Family ~ Page 4

APAC Newsletter

Year-end Escapades: Embrace the Outdoors with Fun-filled Activities ~ Page 10

Celebrate the Joy of Christmas in Asia ~ Page 34

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

CHUA CHUN KIAT Vice President, Commercial Strategy Chunkiat.Chua@webbeds.com

Welcome to Travel Aggregator, WebBeds’ dedicated newsletter for the travel trade in Asia Pacific!

EILEEN TOK Vice President, Commercial Technology Eileen.Tok@webbeds.com

In the final edition of 2021, we’ll be waving goodbye to the year by showcasing the finest seasonal activities and festive dining occasions in Asia Pacific.

JINTANA PORNTANAPAT General Manager, Thailand and Indo-China Jintana.Porntanapat@webbeds.com

With entry restrictions being eased in many destinations, November and December offer excellent opportunities to travel. In this issue of Travel Aggregator, we highlight many of the unique experiences available in Asia Pacific. From sunrise swims in Sydney to frozen lake ice-skating in Beijing, everyone can find their ultimate end-of-year activity!

JOHN STUCCI Managing Director, Pacific, India & Indonesia John.Stucci@webbeds.com

After such a challenging year, the holiday season also promises the perfect chance to reconnect with loved ones and share the timeless joys of family, friendship and food, so we reveal the region’s top hotels and resorts for festive dining. Alternatively, with Expo 2020 well underway in Dubai, this is a wonderful time to treat your family to a winter break in this stunning city. And of course, we’ll provide all the latest news and exclusive offers from WebBeds in Asia Pacific.

Following the upheaval of the last two years, we are finally starting to see light at the end of the tunnel. I am hopeful that the world will start to return to normal in 2022, and WebBeds will be by your side on every step of the road to recovery. We are always stronger when we work together.

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

Happy holidays!

KS Sun President, Asia Pacific WebBeds

@WebBedsAPAC

To catch up on any past editions of Travel Aggregator, simply head to apac-marketing.webbeds.com/aggregator Year-end Celebrations

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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N ov+ D ec 20 21

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DUBAI & EXPO 2020: FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Dubai is a fantastic family destination at any time of year, but in winter, when the temperature dips to a balmy 20-25 degrees, it becomes an oasis of outdoor adventure. With Expo 2020 now in full swing, parents have even more reasons to treat their children to a trip to Dubai. This amazing event will spark curious minds by showcasing the diverse cultures of the world.

Outside the Expo, the city is filled with exciting and interesting things to see and do. Whatever inspires your youngsters, you’ll find an almost endless array of attractions to keep them enthralled in Dubai this winter.

V I S I T I N G D U B A I W I T H T H E FA M I LY

VISITING DUBAI WITH THE FAMILY Dubai is home to a wealth of world-class activities for families, from iconic landmarks such as The Palm, Burj Khalifa and Dubai Frame to actionpacked theme parks including LEGOLAND Dubai, Global Village and IMG Worlds of Adventure. For a deeper insight into the local culture, the Abra Creek Crossing boat ride and traditional textile and spice souks give a glimpse into this ultra-modern city’s rich heritage, while Al Marmoom offers dramatic desert safaris.

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VISITING EXPO 2020 WITH CHILDREN

Photo credit: Expo2020Dubai.com

VISITING EXPO 2020 WITH CHILDREN Expo 2020 is a breath-taking celebration of global cultures and a wonderful way to stimulate young imaginations. Visitors of all ages will be enchanted by the spectacular pavilions and eclectic experiences, including the 360-degree mascot show. Children will be kept fully engaged with a series of interactive exhibits and workshops, while the parks and playgrounds let kids run free while mum and dad rest their feet. And best of all, under 18s can enter the Expo for free*! * All visitors require tickets, but under 18s’ tickets are complimentary

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W H E R E T O S TAY

ARMADA AVENUE HOTEL Armada Avenue Hotel is an impressive fourstar family hotel in the Jumeirah Lake Towers residential area, just moments from the beach and next to a verdant park and children’s play area.

Guests can make a splash in the outdoor pool, unwind in the spa and dine at a wide range of restaurants. A free shuttle bus offers easy access to Dubai Marina Mall and Jumeriah Beach.

CROWNE PLAZA DUBAI MARINA Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina is an outstanding fivestar hotel for parents travelling with kids. Endless hours can be enjoyed at the heated outdoor pool and play area, while nearby attractions include Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Creek and the Dubai Marina Mall. A choice of five restaurants and lounges ensure that all tummies are well filled for the activities ahead.

Download full list of hotel recommendations in Dubai

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W H E R E T O S TAY

OCCIDENTAL HOTEL DUBAI Occidental Hotel Dubai Production City is perfect for families taking a winter break. Located just moments from the Expo 2020 site, this brandnew hotel offers first-class facilities, such as five dining options and an outdoor pool, as well as free transport to the city’s main tourist sites. The Family Suite offers 115 square metres of space with two bedrooms, two bathrooms and three Smart TVs.

PREMIER INN DUBAI IBN BATTUTA HOTEL Premier Inn Dubai IBN Battuta Hotel is a modern midscale property with elevated international amenities. A collection of spacious Family Rooms, a play area and swimming pool are great for multigenerational vacations, while the adjacent mall offers excellent retail therapy and the onsite spa facilities allow guests to relax after a long day.

Expo 2020 is just 20 minutes away by car or metro.

Download full list of hotel recommendations in Dubai

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Year-end E

Embrace th with Fun-fill

The end of the year is such a wonderful time to travel.

down, couples and families can relax and reflect on an

reason to take a well-deserved break. With border restr the ideal opportunity to put the challenges of the last

enchanting seasonal a

Escapades:

he Outdoors led Activities

. As the temperature starts to fall and the world winds

nother year of achievements. In 2021, there is even more

rictions being eased in many parts of Asia Pacific, this is 12 months behind us and rediscover the region’s most

activities and festivities.

Enjoy a Sunrise Swim at Bronte Baths, Sydney AUSTRALIA While the Northern Hemisphere is cooling down, Australia’s summer season is heating up.

So what better way to cool off than with a swim in an oceanfront outdoor pool? Located in the Bronte suburb of Sydney, the Bronte Baths is set in sandstone cliffs overlooking the Pacific.

Open seven days a week and free to use, these breath-taking public pools let bathers enjoy an invigorating dip as the sun rises over the ocean.

The Bronte Baths may not be located in the centre of Sydney, but these hotels allow guests to explore the city’s main attractions…

PA R K R E G I S C I T Y C E N T R E

WHERE TO STAY

PARK REGIS CITY CENTRE Park Regis City Centre is the ideal base for any stay

but guests can prepare for their experience

in Sydney. Located close to the Harbour Bridge and with a dip in the hotel’s outdoor rooftop pool, surrounded by retail boutiques, restaurants and

which showcases spectacular 360-degree

bars, visitors are in the heart of the action. Bronte

vistas of the city.

Baths is approximately 30 minutes’ drive away,

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PA R K R E G I S C O N C I E R G E A PA R T M E N T S

WHERE TO STAY

PARK REGIS CONCIERGE APARTMENTS Park Regis Concierge Apartments is perfect for

provides a collection of fully equipped

families or couples who need a little more space

apartments with kitchen and dining facilities,

to unwind. Situated in Sydney’s Lower North Shore

washing machines and private Juliette

area, close to the elegant waterfront districts of

balconies that frame views of the Sydney

Mosman and Neutral Bay, this convenient property

skyline and harbour.

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Ice-Skate on a Frozen Lake in Beijing CHINA While many cities feature manmade ice rinks, visitors to Beijing can skate on actual frozen lakes! In fact, this is such a popular seasonal activity in the Chinese capital that it has evolved to include other winter activities such as ice bicycles, ice slides, ice castles and more. Popular locations include the picturesque Shichahai Skating Rink at Houhai Lake, or the huge Kunming Lake Skating Rink at the Summer Palace, which is as big as 100 football fields!

For travellers who want to try frozen lake skating, these two hotels are located close to Shichahai Skating Rink…

SUNWORLD DYNAST Y HOTEL

WHERE TO STAY

SUNWORLD DYNASTY HOTEL Sunworld Dynasty Hotel is perfectly positioned

play games in the chess room and basketball

in Wangfujing, the commercial heart of Beijing.

court. Dining options include the Royal Chinese

This five-star property lets guests stay in a choice

Restaurant, which specialises in delectable

of luxurious rooms and suites, unwind in the

dishes such as its famous roast duck.

swimming pool, work out in the gym, or even

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SUNWORLD HOTEL BEIJING

WHERE TO STAY

SUNWORLD HOTEL BEIJING Sunworld Hotel Beijing rises from the busy streets

a collection of comfortable and well-equipped

of downtown Beijing, offering easy access to

rooms and suites, plus an authentic Beijing hot

major local attractions such as the Forbidden

pot restaurant, a coffee garden, gym and a spa

City and Tiananmen Square. This four-star hotel is

with Chinese massage services.

characterised by a style of modern simplicity, with

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Visit the Denpasar Festival 2021 INDONESIA Bali has a captivating culture that often leaves visitors spellbound. The Denpasar Festival highlights this rich spiritual heritage with a series of artistic events and exhibitions, including colourful parades, traditional dances, music concerts, food festivals, photo booths and more.

While the dates of this year’s festival haven’t been confirmed, it is tentatively scheduled to be held in Denpasar in November and December 2021, coinciding with Bali’s recent reopening.

For visitors who want to be immersed in Bali’s exquisite ambience, these resorts will inspire the senses…

M A I S O N AU R E L IA S A N U R , BA L I B Y P R É F É R E N C E

WHERE TO STAY

MAISON AURELIA SANUR, BALI BY PRÉFÉRENCE Maison Aurelia Sanur, Bali by Préférence perfectly

surrounded by verdant gardens. Guests can

captures Bali’s grace and charm. Set in a laid-back

unwind in the jacuzzi, outdoor pool, gym and

spot in the southeast of the island, 20 minutes’

spa, or head out and explore the island’s beaches

drive from Denpasar, this elegant upscale resort

and natural attractions.

features 42 suites with wooden floors and furniture,

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SUDAMALA SUITES & VILLAS, SANUR

WHERE TO STAY

SUDAMALA SUITES & VILLAS, SANUR Sudamala Suites & Villas, Sanur is a spectacular

villas with exquisite Balinese furnishings and

resort for travellers seeking a luxurious escape that

authentic artworks. Culture seekers can learn

showcases the soul of the “Island of the Gods”.

local crafts, take yoga classes or soothe their

Nestled on the sandy shore in Sanur, this five-star

senses at Sudajiva Spa.

retreat houses a collection of thatched suites and

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Take a traditional Ashiyu (foot bath) JAPAN Japan is a magical place to travel in the winter months. As snow blankets the hills, geothermal hot springs provide a natural way to keep warm. Onsens are an integral part of the country’s way of life, but the ashiyu (foot bath) provides a great introduction to the experience. Suitable for adults and children alike, with no gender separation rules, these foot baths help to ease stress, boost circulation and warm up the feet after a long day of sightseeing.

For a blissful winter break in Japan, these heavenly hotels come equipped with their own onsens…

HOTEL INDIGO HAKONE GORA

WHERE TO STAY

HOTEL INDIGO HAKONE GORA Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora is a five-star

spring spa or in the privacy of their room or suite,

mountainside retreat that captures the essence

each of which houses its own onsen. The resort

of Japan’s onsen culture. Nestled next to the Haya

also has an ashiyu facility overlooking the tree-

River, surrounded by forested hills, guests can

lined river.

spend endless days unwinding in the onsite hot

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K U S AT S U O N S E N DA I T O K A N

WHERE TO STAY

KUSATSU ONSEN DAITOKAN Kusatsu Onsen Daitokan is located in one of

many of which overlook the steaming landscape.

Japan’s most famous hot springs, Yubatake, where

Visitors can soak up the ambience, savour local

4,000 litres of naturally-heated water bubbles

cuisine and enjoy a foot bath right in front of

up from the ground every minute! This midscale

the hotel.

hotel lets guests stay in traditionally styled rooms,

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Experience the Seoul Lantern Festival SOUTH KOREA Trickling through the centre of Seoul, with peaceful paths and stepping stones, the Cheonggyecheon Stream is one of the city’s most charming attractions. Every winter, this winsome waterway is brought to life by the Seoul Lantern Festival – a captivating occasion that sees hundreds of lanterns illuminated all along the stream. This interactive event even lets guests participate by crafting their own hanji lanterns and releasing them into the water or sky.

Cheonggyecheon Stream ripples through Seoul’s main commercial districts, just steps from these downtown hotels…

METRO HOTEL

WHERE TO STAY

METRO HOTEL Metro Hotel provides a cosy and convenient place

offers a choice of rooms for couples and families,

for travellers to stay and soak up the atmosphere

plus a kids’ playroom, gym, laundry, restaurant,

of the Seoul Lantern Festival. Located in the vibrant

and lounge areas where guests can chill out 24

Myeongdong district, just 400 metres from the

hours a day.

Cheonggyecheon Stream, this midscale hotel

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LOTTE HOTEL SEOUL

WHERE TO STAY

LOTTE HOTEL SEOUL Lotte Hotel Seoul is a five-star icon in the heart

Michelin-starred Pierre Gagnaire à Seoul, which

of the city that promises a collection of designer

is perched on the 35th floor. The spa, sauna,

rooms and suites with stunning skyline views, and

swimming pool, gym and golf driving range

world-class cuisine at a selection of restaurants,

provide plenty of ways to relax.

including a highly-rated Korean venue and the

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Choose from over 120 hote and enjoy exclusive s

Book and stay by 3

Start pl

els & resorts in Asia Pacific savings of up to 83%!

31 December 2021

lanning

Celebrate the Joy of

Christmas in Asia

Is there any more joyous time of year than Christmas? This annual celebration allows loved ones to come together and share the timeless pleasures of family, friendship and food. All across Asia, hotels and resorts will be creating sparkling culinary occasions this December. Whether you’re seeking a holiday high tea, a Champagne brunch or a full Christmas buffet with all the trimmings, you can find the perfect place to eat, drink and be merry this festive season.

EAST HONG KONG

HONG KONG

EAST HONG KONG EAST Hong Kong, the design hotel overlooking the Victoria Harbour, is a stylish setting to spend the holidays. This year, contemporary Christmas buffet dinners with an amazing array of authentic Western and Asian delights will be served at FEAST (Food by EAST), the vibrant first floor restaurant. Alternatively, you can chill out with warm winter drinks at Domain, or light up the night with festive packages at Sugar, the dramatic 32nd floor rooftop bar overlooking the city.

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EAST HONG KONG

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B A N YA N T R E E K UA L A L U M P U R

MALAYSIA

BANYAN TREE KUALA LUMPUR Elevate your festive season with a dramatic dining experience at Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur, overlooking the iconic Petronas Towers. Altitude, on Level 53, will be serving its holiday afternoon tea in a stunning setting, while Horizon Grill, the 58th floor restaurant, will present a luxurious five-course Christmas Eve dinner and full family brunch. Then step up to Vertigo, the breath-taking alfresco venue on the 59th floor, which will be shaking things up with special cocktails.

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B A N YA N T R E E K UA L A L U M P U R

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EDSA SHANGRI-LA HOTEL MANILA

PHILIPPINES

EDSA SHANGRI-LA HOTEL MANILA Edsa Shangri-la Hotel Manila is a tropical oasis for fivestar celebrations. The Lobby Lounge is a soothing setting to sit back and reconnect with loved ones over afternoon tea, surrounded by lush foliage, while The Bakeshop presents a selection of seasonal treats. For a full festive experience with the whole family, HEAT will showcase full Christmas brunch and dinner buffets, including many classic and contemporary dishes cooked à la minute at open kitchens.

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EDSA SHANGRI-LA HOTEL MANILA

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G O O D W O O D PA R K H O T E L

SINGAPORE

GOODWOOD PARK HOTEL Celebrate the holiday season in the elegant surroundings of Goodwood Park Hotel, Singapore’s five-star heritage icon. Special Christmas set menus and sumptuous spreads include an English afternoon tea buffet at L’Espresso, the sophisticated lounge, while the talented chefs at Gordon Grill, the hotel’s premier fine-dining restaurant, will craft modern European cuisine. Coffee Lounge’s Festive Taiwan Porridge à la carte buffet and Christmas Dessert Box will add a unique Asian twist to the season.

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G O O D W O O D PA R K H O T E L

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THE LANDMARK BANGKOK

THAILAND

THE LANDMARK BANGKOK Christmas in Bangkok is a magical time of year. This December, The Landmark Hotel invites you to visit Rib Room & Bar Steakhouse, its multi award-winning rooftop restaurant, for festive-inspired menus and a bountiful brunch on Christmas Day. Rendezvous, the chic bar, will be shaking and stirring Christmas Martini cocktails, and Atrium, the all-day dining venue, will be a hive of activity with bottomless buffets, lucky draws and visits from Santa, all in heart of bustling Sukhumvit.

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THE LANDMARK BANGKOK

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