NOW Travel Asia [29] by NOW Travel Asia Magazine

IN THIS ISSUE

e r Thnne P i W A’S TGON

I AS ESI ELS D OT H

NOW Travel Asia Awards 2014 is a prestigious award in acknowledgement of the excellent service and product of travel businesses. This edition of NOW Travel Asia honours the winners of this highly recognized award. Our special column will tell

you all about the reasons why the winners are industry’s leaders and why they deserve their recognition. In addition to our award winners, we are bringing you the perspective of decision makers from leading hotels and influential brands in Asia.

VIE Hotel Bangkok – a Member of the MGallery Collection The Winner of Asia’s top design hotel

See their visions on the trend of Asia, which will surely broaden your views of the exciting region!

NOW 3 NOWTravel TRAVELAsia ASIA 7 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 2014

CONTENTS NO VE M B E R/ D E C E M B E R 2 0 14

Asia's Top Leisure Hotels

Asia’s Top Boutique Airlines

Asia’s Top Design Hotels

134 NOW TRAVELAsia ASIA 6 NOW Travel NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Asia’s Top First Class Service

Asia’s Top Business Hotels Asia’s Top Heritage Hotels

THROUGHOUT THE YEAR NOW TRAVEL ASIA HAS BEEN ASKING OUR READERS TO VOTE ON WHAT THEY THOUGHT ARE THE BEST HOTELS AND RESORTS AROUND ASIA. WE’VE TAKEN THE TOP HOTELS AND RESORTS IN VARIOUS CATEGORIES. THESE CATEGORIES INCLUDE: LEISURE, BUSINESS, HERITAGE, DESIGN, BEACH, FAMILY, EMERGING AND VILLAS. LOTS TO MENTION WITHOUT FURTHER ADO, WE ARE PROUD TO PRESENT TO OUR READERS, NOW TRAVEL ASIA AWARDS 2014

Asia’s Top Budget Airlines

100

Asia’s Top Improved Airlines

102

Asia’s Top Beach Hotels

Asia’s Top In-flight Entertainment

104

Asia’s Top Villa Resorts

Asia’s Top Airports

106

Asia’s Top Family Hotels

Asia’s Top Fine Dining Restaurants

112

Asia’s Top Emerging Hotels

Asia’s Top Entertainment Complexes

116

Asia’s Top Spa Hotels & Resorts

Asia’s Top Dream Destinations

117

Asia’s Top Wellness Spa

Asia’s Top New Recommended Destinations

CONTENTS NO VE M B E R/ D E C E M B E R 2 0 14

IT IS UNDENIABLE THAT IN ASIA THERE Asia's top ARE MANY TALENTED AND SUCCESSFUL leading PERSONS IN ALL KINDS OF BUSINESS , People INCLUDING THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY. in Travel NOW TRAVEL ASIA WILL TAKE YOU Business TO HAVE AN INSIGHT OF THESE SUCCESSFUL AND INFLUENTIAL PERSONS IN THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY, WHO ARE OUTSTANDING AND FAMOUS AND BECOME WIDELY ACCEPTED IN DIFFERENT AREAS.

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132 NOW TRAVELAsia ASIA 8 NOW Travel NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

owner NOW travel asia co., ltd. publisher kenneth s. wong editor-in-chief Kanapot sitthiwong

CREATIVE director

Assistant to editor-in-chief worapan chaipisit

editorial officer

ketsaraporn inthana

sirirat kampichai

Graphic designer

photographers

Wathaporn inthajak

thanaporn siangjam

secretary to editor-in-chief

JIN saritnum

sumet daokhuntod chatorn chokpatra

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

contributing writer

Panithan fakseemuang Borvorn Pienpongpanich

vinda kallayanamitr

VACHAPON THISADEERUK PONPARIS GURDSAPSRI

Sales & Marketing department wanpiya phongsai Bannapot salabsang JONGRAK NGamdokmai haruthai pathompongpan tel: +669 5 628 9289 Email: nowtravelasia.mkt@gmail.com

website : www.nowtravelasia.com

now travel Asia company limited Head Office

Inflight magazine of

333/13 Moo 3, The Twogether, Maehia, Muang, Chiangmai 50100 Thailand Tel. +66 5311 1334 Fax. +66 5311 1335 China Office #327,Tian Yao Qiao Road, Shanghai, China 200030 中国上海徐汇区天钥桥路327号嘉汇大厦 Tel: +86(21) 3363-3202 Fax: +86(21) 3363-3463 HP: +861500-187-0204 夏彬彬/Jack Xia E-mail : nowtravelasia@gmail.com

All rights in this publication and the name are own by NOW Travel Asia Co.,Ltd. No parts of this magazine may be reproduced without the permission of NOW Travel Asia Co.,Ltd. All right reserved. NOW Travel Asia magazine is published bimonthly and distributed throughout Thailand and the rest of Asia.

10 NOW Travel Asia NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Editor’s NOTE

Cover: S31 Sukhumvit hotel, Now travel asia awards winner 2014

wait is over! The official result for one of Asia’s prestigious awards the NOW TRAVEL ASIA AWARDS 2014 is finally here! The awards are presented in 20 categories for leadingtravel and hospitality businesses in recognition of their excellence in their respective fields, including most favorite destination, luxury hotel, restaurant, and airlines. –

In addition to the exciting award, we are bringing you the perspective of successful, influential, and internationally recognized people in the travel industry. We are honoured to be able to learn their insightful vision and their management style, and sum up the essentials into our ASIA’S LEADING PEOPLE IN TRAVEL BUSINESS column for you. With intense end of year contents, this edition of NOW Travel Asia is considered a handbook for anyone who love exploring a new frontier in life. Let’s take a journey together with NOW Travel Asia, Asia’s leading travel magazine, and explore the world of travel. Lastly, let’s celebrate the success of the 2014 NOW TRAVEL ASIA AWARDS winners at the 2014 NOW Travel Asia Awards Gala Ceremony, and if you miss anything, you can always check out our website - www.nowtravelasia.com and www.nowtravelasiaawards.com.

Kanapot Sitthiwong Editor-in-Chief editor@nowtravelasia.com

www . n o w tra v e l a si a . c o m 12 NOW Travel Asia NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

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Thai AirAsia X launches one-stop Sky Ticket services and reveals new menu Train, bus, attraction tickets in Japan now available onboard! Thai AirAsia X is going the X-tra mile to offer more convenience and travel options by launching its “X-tra Onboard” services which include a one-stop Sky Ticket service along with a new expansive menu. The airline has partnered up with Quality Express, Keisei Electric Railway, Kansai Airport Transportation Enterprise and Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan in order to offer bus, train and attraction tickets in Japan for purchase onboard, starting on 1 December 2014, to be pre-booked online at www.airasia.com

Premium Japanese department store

‘Takashimaya’ selects ICONSIAM

as location for new global landmark store

Amari Phuket gets ready to launch its Ocean Wing in June 2015 Increasing the room count by 75%

As Amari Phuket begins its 30th year of operations in 2015, it will also be getting ready to unveil a completely new wing to guests that will offer a new perspective and an unparalleled ocean vista of Patong Bay. Amari Phuket has been welcoming guests from all corners of the world for three decades, crafting countless

memories for families, couples and friends. Offering the pinnacle of coastal living with 270-degree views over the bay, the additional rooms at the new Ocean Wing will occupy one of Phuket’s prime locations tucked in a tropical forest perched atop a hillside above the ocean.

www.n o w tra v e l a si a . c o m 14 NOW Travel Asia NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Premium Japanese department store ‘Takashimaya’, together with ICONSIAM Co., Ltd., the developer of the Bht 50-billion riverside national landmark ‘ICONSIAM’, today signed a joint venture agreement to set up the first Takashimaya department store in Thailand at ICONSIAM as the national landmark’s retail anchor with investment of Bht 3,000 million and aims to make Bangkok ‘Retail Capital of Asia’.

FESTIVE SEASON OFFERS

FESTIVE SEASON at HARD ROCK Hotel Pattaya OFFERS

Claus. Experience THE BEAT, New For fun and unique moments AT HARD ROCK Year’ Eve Party with free flow during the festive sesons,HOTEL PATTAYA ofExperience soft drinks and beer, 2 New Christmas andunique New Year period, For fun and moments THE BEAT, alcoholic drinks, band, Hard Rock Pattaya offers during theHotel festive seasons, Year’ Eve PartyLive with freeDJ, flow Rock Agents Show, room rates starting fromYear THBperiod, Christmas and New of soft drinks andLucky beer, Draw, 2 Countdown and Fireworks. 3,496 per room per night, with Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya offers alcoholic drinks, Live band, DJ, The rates start from THB 18,884 Christmas Eve Dinner or room rates starting from THB Rock Agents Show, Lucky Draw, for 2 persons including gala Christmas Day Dinner at THB 3,496 per room per night, with Countdown and Fireworks. dinner party by the pool or party 1,550 per person (when bookings Christmas Eve Dinner or rates start fromRock THBCafé 18,884 inThe hippie style at Hard are made via the Hotel Christmas Day Dinner at THB for 2 persons including gala Pattaya. Special prize for early website) our festive dinner 1,550 per person and (when bookings dinner party the pool apply. or party birds! Terms andbyconditions includes Christmas are made via the Hotel in hippie style at Hard Rock Café International buffet, live bands, Christmas and Santa website) Carols our festive dinner Pattaya. Special prize for early

includes Christmas and International buffet, live bands, Christmas Carols and Santa Claus.

birds! Terms and conditions apply.

For more information, visit http://pattaya.hardrockhotels.net For more information, visit http://pattaya.hardrockhotels.net and Facebook: www.facebook.com/HardRockHotelPattaya. and Facebook: www.facebook.com/HardRockHotelPattaya. Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya 429 Moo 9, Pattaya Beach Road, Chonburi 20150, Thailand 429 Moo 9, Pattaya Beach Road, Chonburi 20150, Thailand Tel: +66 38 428755-9 Fax: +66 38 421673 Tel: +66 38 428755-9 Fax: +66 38 421673 Email: rooms.pattaya@hardrockhotels.net Email: rooms.pattaya@hardrockhotels.net http://pattaya.hardrockhotels.net http://pattaya.hardrockhotels.net

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SHANGHAI TANG’ S 20TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION The luxury Chinese fashion brand steals the show in Shanghai with a record-breaking event. 2014 – Shanghai Tang celebrated its 20th anniversary with a breathtaking SS15 China Fashion Chic mega fashion show. Hollywood and Chinese celebrities and members of international fashion elite came together to join the celebration. The show wowed a sophisticated audience with breathtaking designs from Shanghai Tang’s own SS15 collection alongside capsule collections from celebrated Chinese designers Masha Ma and Wang Pei Yi.

Hang out with your favourite DreamWorks characters this winter at

“Sustainable Catch”

Holiday Inn Macao Cotai Central Holiday Inn Macao, Cotai Central is offering guests the chance hang out with their favourite DreamWorks characters this winter with a DreamWorks Winter Getaway package priced from HKD$1,498*. Until 28 February 2015, guests can enjoy an overnight stay and also have some fun at Shrekfast with the DreamWorks Gang, a DreamWorks-themed buffet

Promotion 7th November – 27th December 2014 Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel breakfast with live entertainment from Shrek and Princess Fiona from ‘Shrek’, Po from “Kung Fu Panda,” Alex the Lion from “Madagascar,” and Mr Peabody and Sherman, just to name a few.

Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel invites you to show caring to the ocean by consuming sustainable fish. The highlight menus seafood such as Mahi Mahi Cartoccio baking whole fish with olives, white wine at Flavors International restaurant, steamed black cod fillet with foie fras soya sauce at Fei Ya, and etc. give you a great taste with healthier and more nutritious value. For further details and reservations, please call, tel: 0 2125 5000

www.n o w tra v e l a si a . c o m 16 NOW Travel Asia NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

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Book a Winter Getaway at

Conrad Macao

and Save35%*

This winter, the multi-award winning Conrad Macao, Cotai Central hotel is offering savings of up to 35% for luxury getaways that are booked before 22 December 2014 for stays valid until 19 February 2015*. Book a Winter Getaway online and receive complimentary Wi-Fi and a 2pm late checkout (subject to availability). For further information +853 8113 8222, +853 8113 8220

Marriott Hotels Expands in Hainan China’s International Tourism Island with the first Marriott Business Hotel, Haikou Marriott Hotel Marriott International, Inc.today celebrated the opening of its first hotel under its flagshipMarriott Hotelsbrand in Haikou, Hainan Province. This impressive 386room business hotel is an exciting addition to the iconic Marriott Hotels brand. Under a long-term management agreement with the owner, Shenzhen Tiley Real Estate Group CO., Ltd., Haikou Marriott Hoteljoins the other three Marriott International properties, adding to the company’s fast-growing portfolio of four hotels in Hainan province.

Grand Opening the

First Giant Duck of Samui

New Star Beach Resort – Koh Samui has launched the first giant duck of Samui and Southern past of Thailand at Chawengnoi Beach, Koh Samui, Suratthni. This event was the guests of honor and the media attend as many. The participants also co-created charity and a donation for purchase educational equipment, water filters and first aid rooms to Wat Santiwararam School. The event was organized activities availability of numerous awards and a live auction for charity with the resort as well.

www.n o w tra v e l a si a . c o m 18 NOW Travel Asia NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

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JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa The long waited Christmas and New Year holidays is approaching fast and everybody is planning a well-deserved end of year brake after a long year of hard work. Well, you might have to make adjustment to your plan if you know what JW Marriott Phuket has to offer this long holiday.

At JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, holiday celebration just got more sumptuous and luxurious. Each year the hotel organizes fun and lively Christmas and New Year celebration, and this year is going to be another fantastic festive season. There might not be snow, but there sure will be party filled with tantalizing food, flowing drinks, spectacular shows, and festive ambience. Starting from December 24, the celebration intensifies as New Year approaches. The party begins in the evening of Christmas Eve with ‘JW’s Big BBQ Feast!’ by the main pool, and on December 24 & 25 from 6 pm to 11 pm ‘The World Famous JW Buffet at Marriott Café’ are the highlight Christmas events, brimming with family fun and festive fare. There are actually more parties than you can go to in a day. Each on-site restaurant holds its own specialty party, including A Surf & Turf Celebration at Andaman Grill, Family Japanese Cuisine Theatre at Kabuki Japanese Cuisine Theatre with Teppanyaki shows, BuonNatale! At Cucina with Christmas Specials and A la Carte Signatures, and Celebrate ‘Phuket Secrets’ at Ginja Taste. On December 25, children will also get to meet Santa Claus at The Children’s Pavilion.

The New Year Eve will be packed with even more sumptuous dining and lively parties! From 7 pm on New Year’s Eve until 1 am on New Year’s Day, ‘The Best of the west and the Feast from the East’ at Lotus Pavilion promises a wonderful evening of fun for all with DJs and dance bands, Thai performances, spectacular midnight fireworks, and exquisite cuisine made from the finest Andaman seafoodand premium imported meats presentedin the form of signature dishes from all of the resort’s restaurants and bars. Elsewhere at Out of the Blue Drink, the party gets a little more electric for you to get your groove on and submerge in the energizing vibe! Be sure to reserve a seat in advance so you won’t miss the best Christmas and New Year parties of your life.

Tip: ‘The Best of the west and the Feast from the East’ at Lotus Pavilion is priced at THB 7,999 ++ per person, ‘JW’s Christmas Beach BBQ Feast’ on the Beachfront at the Main Pool’ at THB 3,300 ++ per person, and ‘The World Famous JW Buffet at Marriott Café’ at THB 2,990 ++ per person.

NOW Travel Asia 21 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

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New Year Event of Rachamankha Rachamankhaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve Party is an evening of both traditional and modern entertainment, music and dance set on a lighted stage with tabling set to see and enjoy the performances. Music, performance and dance will be throughout the night leading to a live band playing popular music to dance in the new year.

22 NOW Travel Asia NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Buffets will be set of regional and western cuisines. The regional cuisines will include a large spread of dishes from Lanna, Myanmar, Thai and Tai-Yai cuisines, the western buffet will include traditional fare with cooked meats, foie gras, smoked salmon, cheese and bread board, a selection of cooked dishes and of course cakes and desserts. The buffets will be accompanied by free flowing beverages including wines, beers and spirits. And of course Kom Loy to launch at the countdown...always a fun, friendly party of locals, friends and guests. Tickets are all inclusive and priced at 5,000THB per person. Early booking is advised as the event books out every year.

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22 NOW TRAVEL ASIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

ASIATIQUE THAILAND 2015 COUNTDOWN The end of year is here and everyone is planning a special way to finish the year in style. Some of you may go on an escape by the sea or some might be fortunate enough to find a flight overseas during the long holiday, but for those visiting or staying in Bangkok, where else would you go but the most stylish countdown party at “Asiatique The Riverfront.” Asiatique The Riverfront, the first and the biggest lifestyle project on the banks of Chao Phraya River, is welcoming the new year with the exciting and colourful “Thailand 2015 Countdown”. Come and celebrate the joyful event where you can shop your heart out, taste great food, see wonderful shows, chill out, and be a part of the 2015 countdown!

Everyone is invited to experience the highly anticipated celebration and share the happiness of New Year with your family and love ones. There will be star-studded concerts and entertaining events throughout the evening. Join the countdown with spectacular fireworks together on December 31st and we promise you an unforgettable New Year countdown! HOW TO GET THERE: ASIATIQUE THE RIVERFRONT IS LOCATED OPPOSITE TO CHAROENKRUNG 93 AND EASILY ACCESSED VIA LAND AND WATER ROUTE. FREE SHUTTER BOAT IS AVAILABLE FROM 4 PM – 11:30 PM OPEN DALIY 5PM - MIDNIGHT FROM SATHORN DOCK (UNDER BTS TAKSIN STATION) TO ASIATIQUE THE RIVERFRONT. NOW TRAVEL ASIA 23 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Airline update

Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Most Awarded Airline

SilkAir was formerly called Tradewinds the airline, before it was renamed SilkAir in 1992. As a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, the multi-award winning airline has inherited the service excellence and high standards from its parent company. SilkAir promises a full service experience that is based on offering customer-oriented products and services from the ground to the air. On ground, SilkAirâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s check-in process is a breeze, with exclusive check-in counters that provide a hassle free and personalized check-in experience for those travelling in Business Class. Online check-in is also available and is open 48 hours before the time of flight departure and will allow you to select a seat and check-in even before you arrive at the airport.

28 NOW Travel Asia NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

With over 350 flights a week to 47 destinations within 5 hours flying duration from Singapore, SilkAir operates one of the youngest fleet consisting of 13 Airbus A320s, 6 Airbus A319s and 7 Boeing 737-800 aircraft. In addition to observing the highest standard of safety, SilkAir is also known for its warm inflight service and multiple inflight offerings. SilkAir’s well-trained Cabin Crew are dedicated to providing attentive and warm service that will ensure that you have an exceptional experience when you travel. SilkAir’s ‘A Joy to Fly’ campaign will also show you why flying is not just a mundane and time consuming activity with offerings such as SilkAir Studio and a delicious inflight meal. SilkAir Studio allows complimentary streaming of movies, television shows and music albums wirelessly to your personal devices to enjoy during the flight. When it’s time to dine, forget cold and bland food, instead you would find delicious choices such as Hainanese Chicken Rice, Laksa and other local Singaporean favourites, which are reflective of the multicultural heritage of Singapore. To complement the meal, SilkAir also has a full bar service with a selection of red and white wine and other non-alcoholic drinks. SilkAir is Asia’s most award regional airline and if you happen to be flying in the Asia Pacific region, experience SilkAir for yourself and you will see why the airline is one of the best!

Airline update

Flying Beyond the Region Thai AirAsia X Thai AirAsia X is the leading low-fare, long-haul carrier, serving destinations which are over a 4-hour flight duration from Bangkok Don Mueang Airport. Thai AirAsia X takes you beyond the region to new exciting destinations, including Japan and South Korea. The concept of the airline is to offer passengers the freedom to only pay for what they need. The power to choose whether you want a hot meal onboard or check-in any baggage is all yours, right down to your travel insurance.

30 NOW Travel Asia NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Based in Don Mueang, Thailand, Thai AirAsia X operates 2 Airbus A330-300 aircraft with a maximum passenger capacity of 377 passengers. Currently 3 direct routes are available from Bangkok Don Mueang Airport including Incheon International Airport in Seoul, Kansai International Airport in Osaka, and Narita International Airport in Tokyo. Since longer flights require extra comfort, Thai AirAsia X offers 12 Business Class seats, as well as Premium Seats and a Quiet Zone. Although economy seats would adequately satisfy your high expectations, you can pay a little extra and pre-book a Premium Seat for

extra leg room. If you are looking for a more quiet and peaceful journey, pick a seat in the Quiet Zone. Meanwhile Business Class provides a more private space and ultra-comfortable seats that transform into Flatbeds for an extra comfortable slumber amidst the clouds. The seat comes with a standard electrical outlet, reading lamp and seat partition for a little more privacy. In addition to extra space, Business Class passengers also enjoy a complimentary meal, drinks, a pillow and blanket, as well as a generous 40 kg baggage allowance, early check-in privileges, and early baggage claim.

NOW Travel Asia 31 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Inflight meals can be pre-booked during your ticket reservation at www.airasia.com . Enjoy savings and a larger variety of dishes when you pre-book your meals online. From as low as 150 baht per dish, experience a variety of Asian and International dishes including some Thai all-time favorites such as Stir-fried chicken with Thai basil and rice, Char-grilled chicken with sticky rice, and Spicy Fried Chicken with rice and traditional Thai style omelette. An international menu with Japanese Chicken teriyaki with rice, Japanese Bento set and western dishes such as Chicken Lasagne are also available. Although you can always pay for a meal during a flight, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best to pre-book it in advance, especially if you are a vegetarian, because only a limited choice of food is available in the air. Beside hot meals, Chocolate Banana cake with orange juice or Coconut pudding is also a refreshing way to make you smile and feel fresh during the flight.

32 NOW Travel Asia NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

For more information, and to enjoy low fares, please visit www.airasia.com.

NOW TRAVEL ASIA 31 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Coverstory

The Winners

asia’s top Leisure hotels

Mandarin Oriental Macau Macau

s the leading casino and entertainment city in the world, everything in Macau is shinier, more extravagant and top-of-theline luxurious. Mandarin Oriental, Macau boasts an elegant touch to its lavish setting that matches the Group’s trademark style and stands uniquely in a city with a high-rolling lifestyle. Retreat to the calm ambience of the hotel’s elegant rooms, which offer breathtaking views of the city’s waterfront and skyline, as well as a complete range of state-of-the-art amenities. However, besides exploring the culinary options here, you can also try the spa, a major feature that Mandarin Oriental is famous for.

Langham Place Hotel Mongkok Hong Kong

oaring 42 floors above the vibrant Mongkok district, Langham Place Hotel is a lively 5 star hotel that captures the vibrancy of local culture and offers authentic sights, sounds and market shopping right at its doorstep. Right next door to the hotel is the 300-shop Langham Mall and getting around Hong Kong is extremely convenient via MTR as Mongkok Station is directly connected to the hotel!

T h e w i n n e r s : A s i a ’ s TOP L e i s u r e h o t e l s

Dusit Thani Madives

W Madives

hile Maldives provide an endless view of glittering Indian Ocean, Dusit Thani Maldives heightens this island paradise experience with renowned Thai hospitality and unparalleled luxury. Whether you’re in a Beach Villa or a Water Villa, you’ll be spoiled with butler service and surrounded by white sandy beaches and stunning 360 degree views of turquoise lagoon.

StarWorld macau

f you look for world-class entertainment, gaming, dining, and relaxation all in one complex, StarWorld Macau is one of the best choices in not just Asia, but the world! Rising 39 storeys tall above Avenida de Amizade, Macau’s dynamic entertainment district, StarWorld Macau offers a completely electrifying and intensified atmosphere in an extravagant setting and extreme level of personalized service. Everything you see, touch, and feel is designed for your pleasure. Elegant rooms and suites are sumptuously fitted with state-of-art technology, luxurious pillow-top beds with fluffy duvets, and lavish see-through marble bathroom, but accommodation is just a part of the whole “Star-rated” experience. In addition to its signature Temptations

restaurant serving western food, StarWorld Macau has a strong focus in the best of Chinese cuisines, from traditional Cantonese at Laurel, Sichuan and Hunan cuisines at Feng Wei Ju to the renowned Shanghainese restaurant - Jade de Jardin Restaurant. There will never be a silent period on the gaming and entertainment floors of StarWorld Macau. Enjoy daily live performances, music, and DJ, challenge the dealers at the game table, or test your luck on slot machines because StarWorld Macau never sleeps. Guests can also enjoy wonderfully structured rewards and privileges offered by the exclusive Galaxy Privilege Club membership!

StarWorld Macau Avenida da Amizade, Macau Tel: +853 2838 3838 www.starworldmacau.com

T h e w i n n e r s : A s i a ’ s TOP L e i s u r e h o t e l s

Pathumwan Princess Hotel bangkok Thailand

our luxury business hotel in the heart of Bangkok city. The hotel strategically situated with direct access to the popular MBK Shopping Center in the center of Bangkok’s most vibrant shopping district, Siam. The cutting-edge hotel is within an easy walking distance to the city’s main entertainment and shopping hub, including Siam Square, Siam Discovery, Siam Paragon and Central World Plaza,making it an ideal base for city exploration and nightlife.

As a cosmopolitan luxury hotel with a distinctive chic urban motif, Pathumwan Princess is renowned for its vibrant character and impeccable services that has been recognized by numerous awards, including our very own prestigious NOW Travel Asia Award.The epicurean rooms and suites offer a harmonious blend of modern chic and Thai traditional charm, as well as the wonderful Bangkok city panoramas. Savour a variety of delectable international cuisines that is expected to impress even the most discerning food critic. Taste the best Korean fare in Bangkok at Kongju Fine Dining Korean and Charcoal Barbecue Restaurant, or enjoy imaginative Italian dishes in an alfresco setting at the hotel’s signature Loop Italian Restaurant Terrace and Bar.

The Winners

asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top Business hotels

InterContinental Bangkok thailand

ocated right in the heart of Bangkokâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top location for business and leisure, InterContinental Bangkok is surrounded by international company head offices, embassies, and upscale shopping centers.

Getting around is extremely convenient as the adjacent skytrain station provides fast travel throughout Bangkok and an easy connection to the airport. The luxury business hotel offers discerning travelers the discrete feel, as well as stunning facilities, beautifully appointed rooms, and magical city views. The technologically advanced accommodation is complemented by 5,076 square meters of highly versatile convention, exhibition and meeting space fully integrated on a single floor, making the InterContinental Bangkok a premier venue for multi-purpose and business events.

NOW Travel Asia 41 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

T h e w i n n e r s : A s i a ’ s TOP B u s i n e s s h o t e l s

Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon Myanmar

eautifully set in the heart of Myanmar’s premier city, Yangon, Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon shines as the city’s leading hotel for pure luxury and contemporary comfort. The colonial style hotel combines western architecture with traditional Asian note that features the splendor of bygone days. The location is superb for business stay, but you also get unparalleled views of the majestic Shwe Dagon Pagoda and Kandawgyi Lake. The rooms are elegantly decked in classic décor and hardwood furnishing with free high-speed Wi-Fi and state-of-the-art in room entertainment for your convenience. Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon features the best meeting and event facilities in Yangon, with truly unique venues and avant-garde audio/visual technology. A grand ballroom and five meeting rooms offer ample space to host any event while a fully-equipped business center at the lobby provides full business services for a smooth work. On the 9th floor is the exclusive Chatrium Club Lounge for privileged guests on floors 7-9. Here, you have access to the Club Meeting Room and many more privileges, including complimentary high tea and even shoes shine service!

Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon # 40, Natmauk Road, Tamwe Township Yangon, The Republic of the Union of Myanmar T: +95 1 544 500 F: +95 1 544 400 E: info.chry@chatrium.com, www.chatrium.com www.chatrium.cn

T h e w i n n e r s : A s i a â&#x20AC;&#x2122; s TOP B u s i n e s s h o t e l s

Conrad Macao Macau

ocated in the heart of Sands Cotai Central, Conrad Macao offers luxury accommodation and state-of-the-art

amenities.

The hotel is the perfect location for business and leisure travellers alike with extensive meeting room facilities, international and local restaurants, Bodhi Spa and Health Club and an array of luxury and lifestyle retail shops to indulge in some retail therapy.

Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong thailand

owering above Ploenchit Road in the heart of Ratchaprasong shopping and commercial district, Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel is a fine combination of luxury and relaxation and an ideal base for a successful business trip. The trend-setting hotel offers upscale accommodation that feature marble entrances, white oak floors to complement the over-sized windows and glass-enclosed bathrooms with hot tubs and whirlpools for a little hydro-massage after a long business meeting. Beside the prime location and luxurious accommodation, the 5 star hotel boasts flexible meeting space that expand almost 2,000 square meters. All 15 meeting rooms, including the Royal Maneeya Ballroom, can be flexibly arranged and feature state-of-art audio-visual technology, plus extensive business services from the fully staffed business center.

NOW Travel Asia 45 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

T h e w i n n e r s : A s i a ’ s TOP B u s i n e s s h o t e l s

The Royal GaRden hoTel Hong Kong

he Royal Garden Hotel truly excelled the luxury hotel scene in Hong Kong with its prime harbor location, first-class business facilities, sumptuous accommodation, and professional services. Located in downtown Tsim Sha Tsui with excellent public transport link, The Royal Garden Hotel is the ideal choice for business traveler as you can conveniently travel across the city for business and return to the urban oasis for a recharge. The recently remodeled guestrooms are designed for elegance and comfort, with original artworks, modern amenities, luxurious Frette

bedsheets and customised Sealy mattress, and the latest technology, as well as broadband internet, executive work desk, and the spectacular views over the harbor. Although Tsim Sha Tsui is flowing with top-notch restaurants, you don’t have to step outside the hotel for a sumptuous treat at the hotel’s Michelin recommended restaurant, Dong Lai Shun. The award-winning restaurant serves authentic “Shuan Yang Rou” or Mongolian hotpot and delicious Beijing and Huaiyang cuisine in a sophisticated modern Chinese setting, perfect for concluding your multi-million business deal!

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Mövenpick Heritage Hotel Sentosa

Singapore he most popular resort island in Singapore is home to exceptional hotels, but Mövenpick Heritage Hotel Sentosa stands out from the rest. Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts transformed the 1940s heritage building into a 5 star heritage hotel while preserving its colonial architecture charm and enhancing its luxurious character with modern contemporary touches. Glass walls and windows, as well as modern arts, are blended into the original architecture of the building

harmoniously. The striking rooms and facilities, designed by the internationally renowned Japanese design company Super Potato, feature 19 signature Onsen Suites with a Japanese-style hot tub set in a tranquil outdoor sanctuary while the heritage premium room which overlooks the iconic Merlion. The hotel also pays homage to its history and design through the infusion of classical and contemporary styles reflected in its culinary offerings at the hotel’s flagship restaurant, Tablescape, that feature both local and western dishes.

asia’s top Heritage hotels

Raffles Hotel Singapore

amed after the modern founder of Singapore, Stamford Raffles, Raffles hotel was built in 1887 and has since become the hot spot for the rich and famous. Raffles Hotel practically sums up Singapore’s vibrant colonial history. Raffles is the perfect base for a Singapore exploration or just sit back and let the world goes by at the Long Bar while you enjoy the famous Singapore Sling - a flamingo-pink, devilishly sweet concoction that was born here in 1915!

The Plaza Hotel Seoul south korea

lthough The Plaza Hotel Seoul is built on the site of Chosun Dynasty’s Jicheonsa Temple, it rewrites the new definition of old-world glamour. Opened in 1976, the South Korean hotel operator gave The Plaza Hotel a major renovation in 2010 while trying to avoid the generic contemporary style typical of so many large hotels. The result is the exquisitely unique hotel with inspiring colour palette, custom-made furniture, innovative sound-engineered architecture, and exclusive art collection!

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Rachamankha

thailand idden within the old city moat built 7 centuries ago is one of the most unique boutique hotels in Thailand, the Rachamankha Hotel. The beauty of Rachamankha does not reveal itself until you pass through the hotel forecourt. Unpretentious architecture inspired by traditional Chinese residence with a strong focus on local Lanna historical heritage is built around a series of characterful courtyards. The walls are made with traditional lime plaster over handmade bricks, a traditional Thai wisdom used centuries ago to keep the building cool. The result is Rachamankha’s distinctive style where extraordinary attention to detail was the key. With design in mind, the owner personally fitted each room and suite with antique furniture and object d´art from his own private collections to emphasize the personal touch, and give each room its own character.

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Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin

thailand magine the 1920s when the fate of Hua Hin was turning from a small fishing village to Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first beach resort. Now fast forward to the new century with modern technology and luxury, but keep the charm of the bygone days in the picture. Formerly the Railway Hotel, Centara Grand Hua Hin thoughtfully retained the rich charm of the old-world.

Luxuriously appointed rooms and suites feature private balconies with spectacular views, high ceilings, ample living space and a design that evokes the spirit of the 1920s. The property sets on pristine beachfront with a wide expanse of gardens perfect for strolling and enjoying the sea breezes, all within a short distance to the town center and markets.

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The Winners W Seoul Walkerhill Hotel Seoul south korea

ith the perfect location on the slope of the Mount Acha overlooking the Han river and also boutique feeling of Seoul, it makes W Seoul look thrill to visit. The hotel design is outstanding with vivid colours combinding with lights and reflection to boost up vibrancy of the place. Natural decorating materials fit well with shiny metallic stucture of interior desgin feature to balance the atmosphere and make it more cozy and look charming. Guest rooms are fabulously set in different colour tones and decorations that are suitable with the river view and the lush mountain view.

asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top Design hotels

S31 Sukhumvit Hotel thailand

cutting-age contemporary hotel in a prime location of Bangkok, Sukhumvit, S31 Sukhumvit Hotel offers hip sanctuary which is the best choice to escape from the bustling metropolitan with luxury, style and functionality. The hotel design provides a sophisticated urban feel, while all guests in all rooms can experience the charm of Bangkok with different feeling throughout the day via floor-to-ceiling glass windows that covers an entire wall. This stylish designed hotel is guaranteed its quality by the creation of the wellknown Thai architect, Dr. Sumej Jumsai who combines modern minimalist and luxurious design together harmoniously in deep earth colour tones to create the most comfortable and relaxing atmosphere. Guests are indulged with a huge luxurious bed with stylish designed bedding in each room to ensure a pleasant stay. S31 Sukhumvit Hotel is the great choice to absorb a bustling day in Bangkok and replace with comfort and relaxation.

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Vie Hotel Bangkok thailand

entioning to a hotel that has a distinctive architecture in the very heart of Bangkok, VIE Hotel Bangkok must be the one. It is guaranteed by being a member of the MGallery Collection and creation of the world-class architect, J.H. Boiffils, with striking contemporary exterior design of the hotel building offering stunning panoramic views of Bangkok from all angles and also unique interior design. The interior decoration is well selective with natural and exotic materials, well-designed lighting, vivid colours and unique pieces of artworks to create an enthrall atmosphere. VIE Hotel Bangkok ensures a pleasant stay of all guests with high standard service together with distinctive and creative interior design of all guestrooms to create uniquely individual style, comfortable atmosphere and private space of each room. The heart of the design is rest and relaxation. This is enough to impress all guests from all over the world and make them return to stay in VIE Hotel Bangkok again and again.

Naumi Hotel Â Â Singapore

ituated loftily in Sathorn, the heart of bustling Bangkok, Sofitel So Bangkok is a contemporary 5-stars hotel that is outstanding with its design concept and excellent service. The design theme of the hotel makes Sofitel So Bangkok remarkable and special as it combines the five elements of Water, Earth, Wood, Metal and Fire together to create stylishly luxury hotel reflecting the charm of Bangkok. This uniquely designed feature is styled by the world famous designer, Mr. Christian Lacroix in all detail from staff uniforms to interior decoration. The hotel rooms and suits are designed by five Thai interiors designers. They bring to life Water, Earth, Wood and

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Sofitel So Bangkok thailand

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Metal to create distinctive atmosphere in each room. Earth element creates wonder and enrichment with Thai primeval wall painting and shadows flickering in the light. Water element offers sophistication and calm in a cool dark marble room. Wood element gives elegance and tranquility feeling with the touch of Thai silk. And, metal element creates purity and modernity in a collage of metal, white and glass.

www.sofitel-so-bangkok.com

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W Bangkok thailand

xperience a stylish design of Asian chic that fashion merges with culture, W Bangkok is the top choice for discerning and young extravagants who love experiencing something new but classy. W Bangkok is extraordinary with vivid, modern and innovative interior desgin and yet high-tech functional facilities that creates friendly atmosphere and provide comfortable retreat in the same time. Guests can touch a sense of warm welcome with glittering crystal Thai pattern decor behind the reception desk at W Lounge that goes well with modern materials and style.

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The guest rooms are fascinating with eight different themes that create different designs and feelings. Signature-designed materials and furniture are chose to fulfill guestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience such as W signature bed, glass design working desk, coloured-glass panel and black brick tiled bathroom. Never forget to mention to popular WOOBAR that provides unforgettable night out with signature W cocktails in a cozy and trendy space docorating with a vibrant backdrop to energise up an atmosphere to be more alive.

www.whotelbangkok.com

The park Hyatt Shanghai china

5 star luxury hotel, The Park Hyatt Shanghai stays elegantly amidst the bustling city of Shanghai. The Park Hyatt Shanghai has stunning interior design with elegant colour tone of lighting and decorating materials that create oriental feeling in classy and confortable atmosphere throughout the hotel to indulge their guests in every step walk. Modern and luxurios furniture were selected as beautiful gems that were arranged perfectly and selectively in each venue.

Siam @ Siam Pattaya Thailand

earless splashes of colour with bold interiors and decorations perfectly reflect to Siam@Siam Pattaya’s outstanding design characters. Siam@Siam Pattaya is an imaginative design hotel that offers modern comforts and sanctuary with surprising detailes at every step. From the colour of the building, comtemporary Thai sculptures to an avant-garde mix of six different themes of guest room can excite your senses. On the roof top is a place for The Roof Sky Bar & Restaurant, Thailand’s very first wet bar on 24th floor. You can just spoil the night at the bar, dipping your toes in a cool water or even taking a seat on the green grass and zipping designer cocktails.

Macalister Mansion penang malaysia

luxuriously boutique hotel, Macalister Mansion Penang is created around the idea of an old English mansion that has a root history from colonial era in the early 1900s. It is a stunning colonial white buidling located elegantly and distinctively in Gorgetown. Contemporary interior designs are carefully adapted to conserved heritage features of the building to ensure comfort and pleasant stay in an impressive nostalgia atmosphere of the past. A large lawn, a mosaic lap pool and a swim-up pool bar are created perfectly on the ground. From this area, it has a stunning backdrop of the mansion that is perfectly for parties and events.

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X2 Kui Buri

thailand he tranquil beach resort, X2 Kui Buri is outstanding with its design concept that combines natural materials with modern design perfectly. The warm-welcome lobby is impressive with mininal design. It is simple with few furniture but so meaningful. The signature of X2 Kui Buri is rock-wall structure which gives a sense of firmness with beautiful arrangement of pieces of rock. Trees, wood and water are design elements that help soften the atmosphere to be more fresh and alive. This place is a perfect sanctuary for anyone who wants to balance your body and soul.

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asia’s top Beach hotels

Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa thailand

orget the crowded beach and hustle bustle of Phuket and imagine yourself in a seaside village where every whim is gratified and every dream vacation you’ve wished for comes true. Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa is one of the most luxurious 5 star retreats on the unspoiled Mai Khao Beach. Unlike Patong Beach, the quiet and semi-remote location of Mai Khao Beach means you won’t have to put up with hawkers or noisy environment. However, seclude location doesn’t mean you will have to spend all day chilling and gazing

the peaceful panoramas, though it might be an excellent idea. To make the most out of the peaceful setting of Mai Kao Beach, try bicycle riding on the pristine beach in the beautiful morning or in the evening with the breathtaking scene of setting sun as the backdrop. Just ask a hotel staff about the hotel’s bicycle service. If you ever get tired of the breathtaking views, head inside for a more different kind of experience. Quan Spa allows you to understand the true meaning of “indulgence” through rejuvenating treatments in a calming and peaceful setting where you can recharge your body and mind.

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Beach Republic thailand

olourful Mediterranean lifestyle meets modern contemporary design and lots of fun at Beach Republic, Koh Samui. Located on the Northern end of Lamai Beach, the multi-award winning beach resort is a destination within a destination. The ever popular Private Pool Villas and Penthouses are located adjacent to the stunning Ocean Club where guests lounge in private cabanas, chill out in the two ocean-front infinity-edge pools, graze on fine tapas and wines, and lose themselves in the mellow grooves provided by the in-house DJs.

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W Singapore Sentosa Cove Singapore

xplore the elegance of waterfront lifestyle on Sentosa Cove where vibrant beach bars alternate with chic restaurants, indulgent spas, and tempting attractions lie. W Singapore – Sentosa Cove comes alive in the lush greenery and lively coastal setting with cosmopolitan design that combined vibrant contemporary art and natural elements. Take in all the action from golden sandy beaches and luscious rainforests to world-renowned theme parks, world championship golf courses, and deep-water yachting marina, all just steps away

The Samaya Bali Indonesia

et on a tranquil stretch of Seminyak Beach, The Samaya Bali is the perfect beachfront romantic couple retreat as it is just minutes from Seminyak’s famous boutique, restaurants, and bars, yet at the same time sheltered from the noise and bustle. While the elegantly appointed villas offer unrivalled luxury and privacy with a personalized butler service and private lap pool, The Samaya Bali also boasts exceptional spa and popular al-fresco dining by the beach at the resort’s Breeze restaurant.

Mandarin Oriental Sanya china

ocated in an exotic setting overlooking a private bay on China’s island state of Hainan, Mandarin Oriental Sanya offers all the delights of a tropical beachside vacation. Complementing the stunning location are the crisp and clean rooms, suites, and villas outfitted with everything you’d expect from a 5 star resort, including the breathtaking views of South China Sea. Making the most out of the amazing beachfront setting and beautiful sunset scenes, Fresh features a laid-back al fresco dining with the freshest seafood and premium meats cooked to perfection.

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Centara Grand West Sands Resort & Villas Phuket thailand

water adventure amidst lush greenery and golden beach awaits at Centara Grand West Sands. The eco-friendly resort fronts onto 500 meters of pristine Mai Kao Beach known for its seclusion and serenity. The rooms, suites, penthouse pool suite and villas are exceptionally designed for leisure and comfort with abundant of natural light, wooden décor, and huge windows framing views of the gardens, waterpark of the Andaman Sea.

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Although we say seclude and serene, the beach resort is all about leisure and fun! The main focus of the resort is the “Splash Jungle Water Park” where families and kids can spend the whole day exploring all 12 water slides, a wave pool, and leisurely floats along the 335 meters lazy river.

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asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top Villa Resorts

V Villas Hua Hin thailand

et on a beautiful strip of Hua Hin Beach just minutes to the center of Hua Hin, V Villas Hua Hin is the sophisticated all-villa resort designed for discerning guests in search of romance, revival, and recreation. Famed French architectural design company, J+H Boiffils, is the creative mind behind the exquisite interiors, with luxury living space, inviting bedrooms with fine silks and tasteful furnishing, spacious en suite bathroom with a rain shower, a twin Jacuzzi, and V Villas Hua Hin exclusive amenities, and state-of-art entertainment system in all 23 exclusive villa. Enjoy a romantic night dip in your large private pool under the night stars while you sip a glass of your favourite vintage from a well-stocked wine cellar right in your villa.

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The Naka Island, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa Phuket thailand

he Naka Island Phuket nestles inside the “Pearl of the Andaman” among stunning beaches, coconut groves, and infinite turquoise blue sea of Naka Yai island. The enchanting boutique resort offers 67 magnificently appointed villas, most with spectacular views over Phang Nga Bay and Phuket. Overlooking the emerald Andaman sea and flanked by lush landscaped garden, Royal Horizon Pool Villa offers 1,600 m2 of luxury with amazing 546 m2 infinity pool, an expansive pool deck wraps around the villa’s two front pavilions, a lounging island, and a sunken dining area that promises a perfect spot for enjoying the world-renowned island sunset.

www.nakaislandphuket.com

Conrad Maldives maldives

nbelievably set in the middle of Indian Ocean, Conrad Maldives occupies 2 interconnected islands, each with its own charm. Retreat to one of the 50 romantic overwater villas with glass floors, private infinity pool, sundeck, and ocean-view bathtub on Rangali Island or a contemporary beach villa tucked away amongst tropical greenery on the main island. Make sure you visit Ithaa Undersea Restaurant for an unforgettable underwater dining experience.

Ayana Resort & Spa Bali Bali

erched on limestone cliffs above Jimbaran Bay, Ayana Resort & Spa Bali is a peaceful and secluded sanctuary in a dramatic oceanfront setting with world-class facilities and accommodations. Each of the 78 spacious pool villas features distinctive Balinese architecture, limestone carvings, luxurious linens, indigenous artworks, separate living areas, expansive marble bathrooms, and a private plunge pool set within walled courtyard gardens for maximum privacy.

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IMPIANA PRIVATE VILLAS KATA NOI, PHUKET thailand

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5 star luxurious boutique resort with only 4 private villas and 7 suites overlooking the bay of Kata Not, Impiana Private Villas Kata Noi Phuket is among the most exclusive hotels in Phuket. The villaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s floor-to-ceiling glass wall captures the breathtaking Andaman Sea view and allows for natural lighting. Each spacious villa is decked in elegant

mix of traditional and contemporary furnishings, and completed with a private infinity pool and a dedicated butler to ensure that every second of your stay is memorable. And should you tire of lounging in your private villa, The Living Room is a good place to enjoy fine dining with a sunset cocktail on the outdoor deck while live piano performance softly plays in the background.

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Festive Hotel Resort World Sentosa

Singapore estive Hotel Resort World Sentosa lives up to its vibrant fun name! Fun family getaway starts right away with a welcome candy at the reception. The Deluxe Family King room livelily carter to the desire of both kids and adults with energetic colour, king-size Simmon â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cool Maxâ&#x20AC;? bed, sofa bed, the unique loft bed, and bathrobes tailored to the little ones. And as a part of Sentosa Resort World, Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, and Adventure Cove Waterpark are just minutes away!

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asia’s top Family hotels

marina mandarin singapore by meritus singapore

deally located in the heart of the city, Marina Mandarin Singapore is a 5-star hotel that offers a spectacular view of the Marina Bay and the financial district. Upon entering the lobby, the 21-storey high atrium hotel captivates the grandeur of the hotel with warm touches of Asian elegance. Marina Mandarin Singapore is perfectly situated next to the trackside of the annual Singapore Grand Prix Formula one race, with direct access to Marina Square Shopping Mall where over 200 specialty shops, cinema and restaurants await. The hotel is one of the first with a Mineral Water Pool patented by NASA’s “Carefree Ionization System”. Besides that, a 24-hour Fitness Centre offers an extensive range of gym equipment for those in search of a good workout.

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Shangri - La hotel Chiangmai thailand Strategically located in the heart of the culturally rich city, within a short distance to the city's famous attractions, Shangri-La Hotel Chiangmai is the ideal home base for exploring both the modern and traditional side of Chiangmai.The hotel is a harmonious blend of modern contemporary and beautiful Northern Lanna design with touches of Thai silk and warm dark wood furniture. There are plenty of activities for a family to do in Chiangmai. During the day, go on a city exploration and visit beautiful temples within the old city moat or ask the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s concierge to arrange a trip to an elephant camp or jungle skywalk. Things get more interesting at night as the famous Night Bazaar and weekend walking street open.

JW Marriott Phuket Resort& Spa thailand

W Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa excels in many categories, but it is most renowned for its family-friend nature. Set across 27 acres of exquisite tropical gardens on the glittering white sand of Mai Khao Beach, the elegant property is a perfect oasis that features stylish accommodation, impeccable service, and extensive facilities, including three swimming pools, 11 restaurants and bars, the award-winning Mandara Spa, yoga sala, and the Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Pavilion! Children at the age of 4 to 12 will have a fun and educational time at the Kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pavilion. The facility is divided into Kids Zone and Teen Zones where toys, games, and furniture are suitably selected for the age range. Just let your kids enjoy all kind of supervised activities while you indulge in a well-deserved spa treatment!

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T h e w i n n e r s : A s i a ’ s TOP F a m i l y h o t e l s

Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort thailand

ith over 120 addresses across 5 continents, Sofitel ensures each guest enjoys truly “magnifique experiences” in its world-class hotels. Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort occupies a spectacular beachfront location overlooking the emerald Andaman Sea and with a backdrop of lush tropical forest. The resort offers timeless French colonial elegance, luxurious rooms and suites, unparalleled facilities, and engaging activities for all ages, all complemented by renowned Thai hospitality. Guests can relax beside the largest lagoon-style pool in Thailand, let the young sters enjoy a colourful and creative Kid’s Club while parents share special moments together at So SPA with L’Occitane, dine on gourmet Thai and international cuisines, explore deserted islands and beaches by private luxury speedboat and our Leisure Butlers, or enjoy a round of golf at the exclusive golf course.

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Sireeampan Boutique Resort Chiangmai thailand

ecently opened this year, Sireeampan Boutique Resort Chiangmai has already become the hot topic of Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hospitality scene. Ideally located near the trendy lifestyle district, the private sanctuary adds modern touches to Siamese rich heritage, featuring 11 exquisitely designed suites inspired by and 18th century Thai manor and tucked away in lush gardens. With just 11 guest suites and a service philosophy that is rooted in the revered Thai hospitality culture, Sireeampan delivers an exceptionally bespoke experience for each and every guest.

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asia’s top emerging hotels

Sofitel So Singapore

Singapore ofitel So Singapore has melted a dash of French Luxury and Singapore chic together right in the center of Singapore’s CBD. Developed by the MIAJA Design Group led by French interior designer Isabelle Miaja, with courtesy of Chanel creative director Karl Lagerfeld, the fashion-centric Sofitel So Singapore brand transformed the historic, neo-classical building built in 1927 into a ultra-luxe boutique hotel, offering a golden tiled HI-SO rooftop pool bar, iPads in all 134 meticulously designed rooms and suites, and fluffy bathrobes complete with wthe red and white ‘The Lion’s Seal’ Embroidery

JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square south korea

ongdaemun Square is Seoul’s most popular shopping destination, so famous that the latest addition of JW Marriott hotel chain has integrated the location into the name. Featuring a stylish urban facade and interior that exude elegance, warm luxury and minimalist sophistication, the hotel combines a sleek modern design with a full range of business and leisure amenities while the rooms boasts breathtaking contrast of day and night views of Dongdaemun and Korea’s historic East Gate!

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T h e w i n n e r s : A s i a ’ s TOP E m e r g i n g h o t e l s

Ozo Chaweng SAMUI thailand

ZO is all about simplicity and a restful trip, but that doesn’t mean it is any less exciting and fabulous. Located on Chaweng Beach Road, the beachfront hotel is close enough to all the excitement of Samui yet far enough to feel secluded and enjoy a peaceful get away. OZO puts an emphasis on the ‘Z’ with extra detail on slumber facilities, from plush mattress and pillows you can literally sink into to black-out curtains. Every room and suite has been designed to ensure you always have a good sleep, day or night! Although OZO Chaweng Samui offers selected services, everything it offers is right on spot to ensure your satisfaction of being able to try everything you wanted to, when you wanted to!

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Waldorf Astoria Beijing thailand

s a part of the iconic Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Waldorf Astoria Beijing is the new face of luxury in Beijing. The brand-new hotel is located in the heart of Beijing, within a walking distance to the Forbidden City. Its bespoke architecture and interior design is the work of art by design firm Yabu Pushelberg, embracing both modern and traditional Chinese design. Its unique bronze exterior stands out from the crowd while multi-million art collection adds a touch of beauty and culture to the interior. Waldorf Astoria Beijing is a true expression of Beijingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heritage and unique culture that provide global travelers with personalized service and inspirational environments.

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Banyan Tree Samui thailand

estled in a series of cascading terraces on a private hill cove in the south-eastern coast of Koh Samui, Banyan Tree Samui’s “all pool” villas is a heavenly escape on one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand. Sharing the spectacular views and dreaming setting is the internationally renowned Banyan Tree Spa Samui, offering an extensive range of Asian-inspired body and beauty treatments, including the signature Rainforest – an immersive hydrotherapy session that combines the best of European hydrothermal therapy with the essence of Asian wellness philosophy.

asia’s top spa hotels & resorts

Layana Resort & Spa Thiland

aunched in 2004, Layana Resort & Spa features 51 luxurious guestrooms and suites all designed in contemporary Thai style and completed with large balconies, while the décor and furnishings make full use of indigenous materials. The Linger Longer Spa is promoted as a “sanctuary for stress relief”, where guests can rediscover their inner harmony through an extensive range of Eastern and Western health. You will be greeted with a warm ‘Layana’ welcome from the moment you arrive and then pampered right up to the moment you step out.

272 Moo 3 Saladan, Phra-Ae Beach, Koh Lanta, Krabi 81150, Thailand Tel: + 66(0) 75 607 100 Email: resa@layanaresort.com, Bangkok Office: Tel: +66 (0) 22163700 Ext. 20506 Email: sales@layanaresort.com

Amanfayun, Hangzhou China

idden among bamboo forest and vast green tea fields, Amanfayun is rightfully a destination of its own. Within this historical resort, Aman Spa lies peacefully in 5 unique Chinese architectures dated back to the Tang Dynasty. Aman Spa reflects the art of traditional Chinese wellness enhanced by the finest international spa practices and treatments. The signature 4 Seasons treatments take the spirit of each season of the year and translate it into 4 distinctive rejuvenating treatments, using locally grown, seasonal herbs.

Shangri - la’s Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa Singapore

signapore s the only beachfront hotel in Singapore, Shangri-la’s Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa boasts stylish interior, pristine white sand beach right on its doorstep, and one of the best spas in Singapore - CHI Spa. Known for its CHI Signature Massage that combines Chinese, Malay and Indian techniques to relieve tension, CHI sooth away your every stress in a serene sanctuary, using only natural products and authentic treatments to revitalise your body, mind and soul.

T h e w i n n e r s : A s i a ’ s TOP s p a H o t e l & R e s o r t s

Sofitel Macau At Ponte 16 Macau

riental opulence meets French elegance at Macau’s picturesque waterfront in the heart of the charming historical quarter, just steps from famed UNESCO World Heritage sites. Sofitel Macau at Ponte 16 is home to the renowned SO SPA with L’Occitane. Combining, traditional Asian treatments, Hammam treatments from the Middle East, and the latest modern French cosmetology techniques, SO SPA provides a true sense of indulgent dedicated to wellbeing and relaxation which set the new standard for Macau’s spa industry.

Addresse: 6/F Sofitel Macau At Ponte 16 , Rua do Visconde Paço de Arcos, Macau TEL: +853 8861 7801 EMAIL: SO-SPA.MACAU@SOFITEL.COM www.sofitelmacau.com

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The Oasis Spa thailand

reatments created by combining the best of ancient Thai traditional medicine and herbal secrets with advanced discoveries in beauty and wellness spas designed with a distinctive Thai atmosphere where you can enjoy superior service without unnecessary formality in the privacy of your own garden treatment villa. Relax, recharge, and find healing therapies at Oasis Spa destination in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya. Whether you choose a spa package or our amazing "Four Hand Massage," our highly trained therapists will pamper you while coaxing your body into a state of serene tranquility, enhanced beauty, and vigorous health.

asia’s top Wellness spa

Sense of Touch ShangHai

ocated in a historic and picturesque district of French Concession, Sense of Touch is a contemporary world of indulgence with captivating French-Moroccan design. The charming day spa offers head to toes services from body and face treatments to manicures, pedicures, and even waxing! Let the expert therapist work their magic while you gaze out onto the rooftop patio and the tree-top view of the French Concession. When they are done, you won’t just feel feather light, but you’ll feel more beautiful as well.

Mandala Spa & Villas, Boracay Island Philippines

idden within Boracay Island amidst tropical forest and pristine white beach, Mandala Spa & Villas is an ultimate spa destination in Philippines. Relaxation isn’t the only aim here. Mandala works to inspired you towards self-discovery and wellbeing through variety of effective spa treatments, as well as detox, healing arts, and yoga. Retreat to a 3 days or a week of tailored made getaway package, including Yoga Holidays, Wellness and Health, and Detox and Cleanse, and find yourself in an intimate journey of self-exploration.

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Harnn Heritage Spa thailand

ixteen years ago, Harnn started off as a luxury natural skincare producer. Since then it developed into an internationally recognized contemporary luxury Asian inspired lifestyle brand. Located in Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier luxury shopping malls and in InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, Vietnam, Harnn Heritage Spa embraces traditional Eastern wisdom perfected over thousands of years, using only the finest natural ingredients to create complete harmony between the body and soul.

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Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul South Korea

he multi-award-winning Banyan Tree name says it all. Located in the center of Seoul overlooking the spectacular Mount Namsan, Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul is the combination between a 6 star urban resort and a private membership club. Banyan Tree SPA offers Korean-inspired treatments with natural ingredients and “high touch, low tech” philosophy unique to Banyan Tree experience. But if you feel like working out, you’ll be pleased with myriad of outdoor and recreational facilities including a golf driving range, tennis, futsal, outdoor swimming pools.

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The Winners

Emirates Airline

mirates operates one of the youngest fleets in the world, and with regular upgrades, passengers will always get a superior flight experience. The arrival of Airbus A380 paved a new benchmark for Emirates Airlinesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; first class luxury travel with private suite, deluxe shower spas, and onboard lounge. The First Class Private Suite is a retreat into the world of privacy and personalized services 30,000 feet above the ground. Each suite comes fully equipped with a personal mini-bar, and its own vanity table, mirror, wardrobe, as well as a fully convertible seat that transforms into a fully flat bed with extra comfortable mattress.

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asia’s top First class Service

Singapore Airlines

ingapore Airlines is the pioneer in many airline innovations, including the first to fly the groundbreaking Airbus A380 and the Singapore Airlines Suite, offering a space and luxury beyond first class. Luxuriate in your very own private suite in the largest ever armchair hand-stitched by master Italian craftsmen, Poltrona Frau, or on the spacious standalone flat bed – the first bed that isn’t converted from a chair. When it’s for a meal, the suite offers premium menus exclusively created by celebrated panel of chefs or pre-book your favourite dish specially prepared for you with Singapore Airlines’ pioneering “Book the Cook” service.

Cathay Pacific Airways

xperience the refined luxury of first-class travel aboard Cathay Pacific Airways. While the sophisticated looks and feel of The First Class Suite is designed by the London-based architects Foster + Partners, extensive detail has been integrated into the First Class Suite to provide impeccable experience. Inflight entertainment will be a blast with the state-of-art BOSE noise cancelling headphones, and when you feel like lying down, extra thick mattress and 500 thread count cotton bed sheet are just heavenly.

Eithad Airways

he UAE always has surprises up its sleeve in the luxury department. As the national flag carrier, Etihad Airways hit the airline industry hard with “The Residence” – the ultra-extravagant way to fly. The Residence marked the history of commercial airlines with the world’s first private multi-room cabin on a commercial passenger aircraft, offering a living room, double bedroom, separate ensuite shower room, and even a dedicate Butler!

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China Southern Airlines

hina Southern Airlines’ Platinum Private Suite offers a luxurious inflight experience beyond first-class. The platinum suite opens up a new world of luxury travel and sumptuous surprises with 33” wide seat that converts to an 80” flat bed. The suite comes fully equipped with personal widescreen TV that plays almost 600 hours of excellent entertainment programs, and your personal satellite phone so you won’t miss any business.

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The Winners asia’s top Boutique Airlines

Bangkok Airways

angkok Airways differentiate itself as “Asia’s Boutique Airline” with the best personalized service and more routes to exotic and cultural destinations. Every passenger can enjoy Bangkok Airways’ boutique lounge with complimentary snacks and drinks, but the boutique service doesn’t stop there. The Blue Ribbon Club signifies top-notch quality and raised the exclusive service concept to the next level. From exclusive check-in and on hand assistance, to Blue Ribbon Club Lounge where you can enjoy hot meals and ease the tension in your muscle at the relaxing massage room!

SilkAir

ilk Air inherits service excellence and high standard from its parent company, Singapore Airlines, and it promises a full service that is profoundly based on offering customer-oriented quality product and service from ground to air. Flying is no longer a time consuming, boring time for passengers to sleep through as Silk Air’s “A Joy to Fly” campaign brings fun and quality back with SilkAir Studio and authentic inflight cuisine.

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The Winners

Tiger Airways

s one of the leading budget airlines in Asia, Tiger Airways promises affordable travel options and the highest standards of safety, security and reliability. The Singapore-based budget airline flies to regional destinations in South East Asia, China, India, and Australia. To keep passenger fare low, Tiger Airways subtracts the non-essentials off so you don’t have to pay for them unless you want them. The “Buy Onboard” program lets you decide for yourself if you want an inflight meal or not, but note that Tiger Airways was awarded for “Best in-flight meals” in the low cost airline category in 2012!

Lion Air

ion Air brings all expertise, know-how, and quality service of its Indonesia-based parent company, Lion Air, to the steaming low-cost airline market. As the latest player low-cost regional airline industry, Lion Air has already picked up the pace and proven itself to be a real contender. The “We make people fly” slogan emphasizes the freedom to fly to your destination without compromising service standard and breaking your bank.

asia’s top Budget airlines

Now Everyone Can Fly Thai AirAsia

irAsia pride itself for providing top value for money with continuous effort in serving better quality service at the highest quality possible. Every step of your trip is thoughtfully planned for efficiency from ticket booking, check-in, baggage service, boarding, to inflight service and baggage claim. With its low-cost, low-fare, and no-frills concept, as well as highly efficient management, Thai AirAsia is the pioneer of low-cost air travel in Thailand. You don’t have to pay for something you won’t need during your short flight such as inflight meals and complimentary drinks, but if you do, you can just buy it onboard or pre-book it when you reserve a seat online. Being a ticketless airline doesn’t just give customers less worry about forgetting or losing their ticket,

but it’s also a cost effective way to do the business. Without compromising quality service and the highest standard of safety, AirAsia is able to lower cost, and hence lower fare! Thai AirAsia continues the development to provide “Truly Low Fares, Trusted Quality”. The success of the AirAsia Group has been internationally recognized by reputable organization, including 6 consecutive “World’s Best Low-Cost Airline” by Skytrax. In addition to third party evaluation, Thai AirAsia has been surveying the customer’s satisfaction every quarter through MIAdvisory Co., Ltd., to make sure the service is right on the spot. Recent survey for Thailand domestic passengers shows up to 89% satisfaction with 83% of customers entrusting AirAsia for their next flight!

The Winners asia’s improved airlines

Lao Airlines

ollowing the world’s attention on Laos as an unspoiled leisure destination and the rising economy in South East Asia, Lao Airlines has successfully established itself as a reliable and safe airline with high standard of service. Laos Airlines operates mainly around the neighbouring countries, but it has extended its wings to Seoul, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Jakarta.

Air Macau

Qatar Airways

ince Air Macau’s commercial inauguration on November 9th, 1995, it has been connecting millions of people across Taiwan Strait while pushing its reach further to Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, and South Korea. And with the growth in Macau’s entertainment and tourism industries, Air Macau is on its way to become preferred airline of Macau that exceeds customers’ expectation.

he 21st century Middle East has become a totally different world with billion dollars investment and emerging companies with potential to be the world leader. Qatar Airways is one of them and it has now stepped up as one of the best airlines in the world. The airline integrated the first-class experience onboard every flight, and positions itself as a business airline with First class service by literally provide business class passengers the service normally only available in first class.

Air Bagan

Vietnam Airlines

ietnam Airlines grew from a small domestic carrier to a large international carrier with more than 28 international destinations in Asia, Europe, and Oceania. While Vietnam Airlines always strive for improvement continuously, it expands into the low-cost market with the introduction of JetStar Pacific Airlines. This allows the national flag carrier to focus on delivering top quality service and try to achieve its goal to become the second largest full-service carrier in South East Asia.

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ir Bagan caught the tide of Myanmar’s booming economic and rises above Myanmar’s airline industry as one of the leaders. The airline is proud to be the first 100% Myanmar owned airline and it’s dedicated to be the pioneer in reliability, safety standard, service innovation, and flight route in the booming Myanmar aviation industry. Air Bagan mostly serves domestic routes but the recently introduced Yangon – Chiangmai route has opened a new door of opportunity for more international routes.

The Winners

Korean Air

-Pop, K-Drama, and K-Fever – you all know the Korean wave that has taken over the world of entertainment. Korean Air delivers the vibrant spirit of K-culture on-board 40,000 feet above the ground. Coupled it with the best of sight, sound, and interactivity, featuring blockbuster Hollywood, European, and Asian films, as well as countless hours of games, variety shows, documentaries, sports, and music, and you’ll reach your destination before you even know it.

Etihad Airways

ver 700 hours of entertainment awaits on-board Etihad Airways. The airline’s unique E-Box entertainment system let you choose a huge collection of movies, TV shows, music, games, and even live TV channels. The comprehensive list of entertainments, from the latest Hollywood hits, to memorable Classics, means there certainly will be a genre that captures your interest. Better yet, you can even create your own video playlist and enjoy a seamless stream of entertainment!

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asia’s top in-flight entertainment

Cathay Pacific Airways

tudiocx goes on-board every Cathay Pacific Airways’ flight to provide a wide range of fun-filled audio-visual entertainment. The Audio and Video on Demand allows you to browse through extensive list of movies, TV programs, and games, and watch it or play it whenever you like. The system also let you connect your portable devices and stream your personal collection of music or movies to your personal screen.

Singapore Airlines

ingapore Airlines’ signature KrisWorld is one the pioneering inflight entertainment systems. Its offerings has gone from just a limited movie titles, TV programs, and Nintendo games to the state-of-art next generation KrisWorld with crisp high resolution screen, excellent audio performance, and inflight connectivity, offering endless hours of movies, games, TV programs, and music. And with active noise cancelling headphones in business class, first class, and suite, you will enjoy unprecedented audio quality in every flight!

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The Winners asia’s top airports

Changi International Airport

here are plenty of reasons why Changi Airport always makes it to the top list of airport around the world, not just in Asia. There are more facilities and services than you would have time for in one visit. Spend hours on XBOX and Playstation at the Entertainment Deck, learn about Singapore’s aviation history at Changi Aviation History, or if you are tired after all that time spent cramped in the plane seat, how about a refreshing shower and a relaxing massage to keep you rejuvenated after your long flight!

Incheon International Airport

Narita International Airport

ncheon International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world and it welcomed more than 40 million travelers last year alone. In addition to shopping and dining, the airport highlights the unique Korean culture withall year round live cultural performance at the Culture Port while upstairs on the 4th floor is the Korean Cultural Street lined with Korean traditional arcgitecture where you can experience Korean classical music performance, enjoy traditional rice cake, and make a wish at the unique Wish Tree.

Hong Kong International Airport

lso known as Tokyo International Airport, Narita International Airport is the destination for 30-40 million travelers every year. As the main gateway to Japan, you’ll be greeted Japanese cultural performances or exhibitions as soon as you step off the plane. The grand opening of the newly renovated Airport Mall will ‘wow’ you with new specialized stores that have not been seen at airports before, includingboutique stores, Hello Kitty store, and art & craft stores.

ong Kong International Airport is the world’s busiest cargo gateway and one of the world’s busiest passenger airports. The shopping and dining scene at the airport is as vibrant as the city center with designer stores and diversity of restaurants from Eastern fare to Western delights. When you are ready to explore beyond the airport, there are different transportation options from road, rail, and the unique SkyPier service which provides speedy ferry service for transfer passengers to 8 ports around the Pearl River Delta (PRD), including mainland China and Macao.

Suvarnabhumi International Airport

tepping up to be the hub for air transportation in South East Asia, SuvarnabhumiAirport is one of the busiest airports in the region. The airport handles over 90 passenger and cargo airlinesand more than 50 million passengers each year, and with the future airport expansion, it’ll have the capacity to handle 125 million passengers, 90 million international and 35 million domestic, a year!

The Winners

asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top Fine dining Restaurants

VIDA RICA AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL Macau

eaturing an elegant interior and a spectacular glass wall that offers panoramic views of South China Sea, Vida Rica is the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature restaurant, using nothing but the freshest and finest ingredients to create an inimitable dining experience. Culinary highlights include traditional French cuisine with a modern twist created by Chef Dominique Bugnand, and a tantalising selection of Chinese specialties.

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Acqua Phuket

he smart black and white restaurant in Kalim Beach, Acqua Restaurant promises to bring the freshnest of ingredients, sourced from the best producers from all over the world to create imaginative flavourful dishes guaranteed by Chef Alessandro Frau, an innovative Italian born concocter. A wide selection of hand-picked wines from around the world is the best, guaranteed by “The Award of Excellent” by Wine Spectator. Acqua restaurant is a perfect dinning place with classy yet relaxing atmosphere , friendly staff and excellent service.

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Mix Restaurant & Bar Chiang mai

t’s just wrong not to visit Mix Restaurant if you are in Chiangmai. Mix creatively takes variety of traditional dishes, enhances them with modern cooking technique and ingredients, and gives them the 21st century presentation.Creativity flows out of the kitchen as starters are enhanced into mains, elements of desserts are fused into appetisers, and traditional dishes get a new facelift! Mix’s eclectic menu covers an extended range of dishes from Thai, Chinese to Western cuisine designed with taste, nutrition, looks, and the “Wow” factor in mind. Experience Mix’s tantalizing modernized dishes in Chiangmai, Bangkok, Vientiane (Laos), and soon in Yangon (Myanmar) and Nakhon Ratchasima

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Nahm Thailand

modern Thai restaurant executed by the first ever Michelin star chef for Thai cuisine, David Thompson makes Nahm restaurant a prestigous place for traditional Thai meal. The dishes are created in perfect balance of hot and sour, sweet and salty by using robustly flavoured ingredients sourced from the best market-fresh produce in the world. With its cool interoir and classy atmosphere, guest either may choose to dine inside or out on the terrace overlooking the outdoor pool. A private dining room is also provided for social events.

Armani prive Hong kong

rmani/Prive brings the charm of Giorgio Armani to Hong Kong with seductive lighting of Chinese fire red and sexy décor toned down by cooling blue hues. Charming bartenders dance to the beat of live DJ as they craft modernized classic cocktails mixed from freshest and sometimes eccentric ingredients like the signature Lychee Bee, Armani spritz, or Kaffir Margarita. The other face of Armani/Prive lies on the chill-out rooftop terrace surrounded by shimmering skyscraper views. The open air rooftop is laced with sleek lounge sofas and cozy chairs under a candle lit atmosphere and soft glowing lights – a perfect night spot to meet fashion crowd and hangout.

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Jaan Singapore

he finest artisanal French cuisine, Jaan is a multi award-winning restaurant that has exquisite interior design with a stunning chandlier and offers the breathtaking view of Singapore’s scenic landscape. Together with the truely fascinated culinary experience with premium quality by using the freshest ingredients, all dishes is derived from a passion of Chef de Cuisine Julien Royer to reflect culinary tradition and creativity. It makes Jaan is a hot spot for dining in Singapore.

The Winners

The Venetian Macao Macau

verything is magnified in Macao, especially entertainment! The Venetian Macao is located on the renowned Cotai Strip and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of the most famous destinations for travelers throughout the world. A stroll around the resort gives you a glance of luxury, as well as world-class services, facilities, and attractions such as 546,000 square feet of gaming floor, high-end boutiques, Cirque du Soleil's Zaia show, Gondola ride, irresistible restaurants, and 5-star hotel.

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asia’s top Entertainment Complexes

Asiatique The Riverfront Thailand

uilt on the banks of Chao Phraya River, AsiatiqueThe Riverfrontis the trendiest landmark in Bangkok for Thais and foreigners alike. The lifestyle complex combines shopping and dining experiences in the setting that evokes the nostalgia of the 1900s. Shop through thousands of boutiques selling handicrafts, jewelry, and handmade souvenirs, and if your tank is empty, there are over 40 unique restaurants to try. But for a truly memorable experience, restaurants along the Waterfront District offers a breathtaking panoramic Chao Phraya and city views along the longest riverfront promenade in Thailand.

Marina Bay Sands Singapore

olding the world record for the most expensive building in the world, the iconic architecture of Marina Bay Sands stands majestically against Singapore’s skyline. The multi-billion integrated resort is home to a world-class hotel, convention and exhibition facilities, theaters, entertainment venues, high-end retailers, Michelin star restaurants, and a casino. Marina Bay Sands is famous for its rooftop park or the Sands Skypark where you can just dip into the 150 meters infinity pool overlooking the breathtaking views of Singapore.

Resorts World Sentosa Singapore

esorts World Sentosa is a family-friendly integrated resort on Singapore’s most famous leisure island – Sentosa Island. While the resort is home to one of Singapore’s two casinos, the everyone in the family can enjoy the whole day of excitement at Universal Studios theme park filled with trilling rides and shows, or be mesmerized by the Marine Life Park which includes Adventure Cove Waterpark and the world’s largest aquarium – S.E.A Aquarium!

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T h e w i n n e r s : A s i a ’ s TOP E n t e r t a i n m e n t C o m p l e x e s

Galaxy Macau

gain, we are back on Cotai Strip, and it’s time for the marvelous Galaxy MacauTM. The casino resort isn’t just the home to 3 luxury hotels, Galaxy HotelTM, Banyan Tree Macau and Hotel Okura Macau, but it also boasts the breathtaking rooftop Grand Resort Deck with charming swimming pools, including the world's largest Skytop Wave Pool and a 2,000 square feet white sand beach. Savour the taste of the world in the many world-class Pan-Asian and international restaurants, and experience the unique nightlife at the exclusive performance lounge – China Rouge.

Galaxy Macau Cotai, Macau Tel: +853 2888 0888 www.galaxymacau.com

The Winners asia’s Dream destinations

Bangkok

Maldives Island

thailand

lso known as Krung Thep or the “City of Angels”, Bangkok is Thailand’s center of economy, culture, politic, commerce, and education.It is one of Asia’s most cosmopolitan cities and there bound to be something you would love about Bangkok. Seeking for magnificent temples andpalaces? Checked! Fancy a shopping spree and grand sale? Checked! Exotic food with explosive flavours? Checked! Wild nightlife? Checked! Exciting and unforgettable memory? Double-checked! But just like traveling to any big cities, you should always learn about the possible downsides before heading on an adventure.

Maldives

aldives is a collection of breathtaking islands known for their heavenly setting in the middle of the vast Indian Ocean. The crystal clear water, pristine white sand beach, tropical weather, and clear blue sky of Maldives are probably enough to seduce countless honeymooners to visit, but with presence of luxury hotel brands, the island paradise becomes a must-visit destination. A walk on a beach will never be the same once you visit Maldives - you have to see it to believe that heaven is real!

Paro

Shangri - La

Bhutan

China

he beauty of the majestic Himalayas never cease to amaze the world. Parois home to breathtaking valleys and rivers, but beside its dream-like landscape, it is also home to Taktsang Monastery, an iconic monastery impressively perched on the edge of a 1,200 meters cliff, and ParoDzong, one of Bhutan’s most impressive dzongs. The two religious sites are the finest example of Bhutanese architecture. Just a few minutes drive from the dzonglies the charming town of Paro worthy of an exploration on foot through colourful wooden shops and restaurants.

he tale of Shangri-La or the “Eden of Dream” began in 1933 by a novel called “Lost Horizon” which tells a story of a mystical valley so beautiful as if it is heaven itself. Shangri-La is remotely located by the border of Tibet, Sichuan, and Yunnan, and it’s only reachable by cars. Experience the unspoiled natural and cultural beauties of Shangri-La,learn about the Tibetan lifestyle, religion and cuisine.The unique scenery, highlighted by picturesque plateaus, mountain ranges, and vast plains, together with the fascinating ethnic culture makes the land very attractive and charming to visit.

Jeju island South Korea

eju is South Korea’s premier island vacation and one of the most famous honeymoon destinations in the world. The rich volcanic island boasts scenic beauties of beaches, waterfalls, cliffs vast tea fields, and caves, including Manjanggul Cave - the world’s longest lava tube that has been registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage. Although Jeju is an island, beach isn’t really the main attraction; the island offers visitors a wide range of activities: hiking on South Korea’s highest mountain and catch amazing sunrise and sunset over the ocean, riding horses, visiting tea fields, and try fresh local produces cooked in Jeju style.

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The Winners asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new recommeneded destinations

Haedong Yonggung Temple South Korea

t least one of your wishes will be answered here through your heartful prayers, this is a motto of one

of the most sacred Buddhist temples in Korea, Haedong Yonggung Temple. Unlike the other temples, this historic sanctuary is located on the coast in Busan, there is a mountain on the front and the sea on the back. This is a perfect place for tourists to experience various dimensions of Korea such as the beauty of traditional architecture, Buddhism belief and beautiful natural landscape of the sea and the mountain. April is special month to visit the temple as it is the most beautiful time of the year with cherry bloosom in full bloom and the temple area is decorated with lanterns to celebrate the birth of Buddha.

Lantern Festival, Chiangmai thailand

Sapa Vietnam

he land of the natural beauty, slow life of local people and rich culture diversity of minority groups, Sapa is a charmingly quiet mountain town that is hidden in the highland in the northern

Vietman. In a clear day, stunning view of sloping rice terraces, panoramic views of the mountain range and Fan Si Pan peak emerge after thick mist peeling away, especially during the summer time. When, colourful costumes of local hill tribe people fill the town, it makes Sapa much more fascinating. This is absolutely a dream destination of ones who wish to ease their body and soul within the embrace of the pure beauty of the nature in different cultures.

Raja Ampat Islands Indonesia

n the full moon day of November every year, the sky above Chiangmai is filled with thousand illuminated lanterns and the river is also lit with beautiful banana leave vessels adorned with candles and incenses. This day is normally known in Thai as Loy-Kratong day or Yee Peng festival. This is a traditional festival that has practiced for hundreds of years to honor to the goddess of water. Also, people believe that lanterns are release into the high sky to venerate the Crystal Chedi in heaven in which the Buddhaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hair is kept, to bring them good luck in the new coming year.

he beauty of the pure nature of Raja Ampat Islands is like a heavenly-drawn picture that has perfect compositions with crystal clear water that tenderly brushes over the white sandy beaches with lush mountainous background. This place must be a dream destination of underwater enthusiasts as it offers the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best marine sight with diverse aquatic animals in a fertile underwater ecosystem. Spending the lazy day on a wooden boat floatining on the quiet sea, listening to the rifting waves and bird songs, these would be a wonderful retreat for a perfect holiday.

Leh - Ladakh india

o feed the soul with the scenic splendor of the soaring mountains and pristine valleys, enrich the senses of an adventure and experience beauty of tibetan culture, Leh-Ladakh provide all. The town are located in the enchanted land in Himalaya mountain range in the northern India. Most buildings were built in tibetan architectural style including the ruined Leh Palace, which was built in the same style as the Potala Place. As the location of the palace is on the rocky hill, it provides panoramic views of Leh and the surrounding areas. There are many places that are worth visiting such as Shanti Stupa, Hemis gompha, Leh Trekking Trails, Hunder Valley and many more.

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IT IS UNDENIABLE THAT IN ASIA THERE ARE MANY TALENTED AND SUCCESSFUL PERSONS IN ALL KINDS OF BUSINESS , INCLUDING THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY. NOW TRAVEL ASIA WILL TAKE YOU TO HAVE AN INSIGHT OF THESE SUCCESSFUL AND INFLUENTIAL PERSONS IN THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY, WHO ARE OUTSTANDING AND FAMOUS AND BECOME WIDELY ACCEPTED IN DIFFERENT AREAS.

Chanin Donavanik Dusit International Managing Director and CEO

The concept under the brand’s legend? Dusit is a well-established Thai hotel brand under Thai management that represents the unique Thai identity and culture of gracious hospitality. Most known for our classic heritage amongst the older generation, we do have our growing brand of dusitD2 hotels and resorts which caters to more modern and easy-going travellers who at the same time, require excellent services. What is the key success of the brand under your management? The hotel business is a very long-term business, unlike selling condominiums, for example. Therefore, some of the biggest successes during the last 5 years involve investing in the head team to find new hotels, manage the hotels and work on the brand’s marketing to maintain its growth and success. What is the brand’s mission in the next steps? As a Thai brand, we are recognized internationally for our excellent hospitality and service, restaurants and facilities. We plan to open 10-20 properties internationally per year as growing our numbers is very important for worldwide brand recognition. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? The population in Asia numbers nearly 4 billion, therefore I believe Asian tourism will grow exponentially. Increasing numbers of travellers from Asia are international travellers, and their purchasing power is certainly increasing. The tourism industry will continue to grow—but it is up to us how well we are prepared. In the near future, I hope to see a shift in focus of the Thai tourism industry from quantity to quality travellers.

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During the past 5 years, we have invested in the head team to find new hotels, manage the hotels, and work on the marketing for the brand to maintain its growth. What direction of the New Asia which you foresee in the future? After the AEC is fully in action, it will be a bright, new chapter for the Asian hotel industry. More investment will flow across borders and economies will grow. Thailand has welcomed foreign investments for quite some time, therefore I don’t believe there will be a dramatic change in the tourism scene here. Nonetheless, one improvement we can make is in language skills, as quality workforce from neighbouring countries will be looking for opportunities here, too.

Toshihiro Ogita

President of Hotel Okura Co.,Ltd

The concept under the brand’s legend? The Hotel Okura Group has been pursuing the “Best A.C.S.” or Best Accommodation, Cuisine and Services, consistently since the opening of its flagship property, Hotel Okura Tokyo, 52 years ago. In terms of the Best Accommodation, we are aiming to achieve facilities of a high level of functionality and comfort, making the best use of architecture, tradition, culture, and fine arts of Japan. We are proud of our excellent services to satisfy the request and desire of each and every guest individually based on a basic philosophy of “SHIN-SETUTO-WA” or hospitality and Harmony. Hotel Okura Tokyo has successfully established itself as a luxury hotel that represents Japan, and has accumulated abundant experiences through frequent honorable opportunities to welcome top VIPs from around the world.

What is the key success of the brand under your management? A key factor for success in the brand expansion is to raise the brand awareness mainly in Asia with a strategy to differentiate us from our competitors. There are 3 key conceptual items in our differentiation. Best A.C.S. The first point is to embody SHINSETU-TO-WA (hospitality and Harmony). The second point is to make much account of Restaurants, Bars and Banquet businesses. We operate restaurants directly and we are proud of having several dining outlets which have gained reputable star ratings from Michelin. The third point is to become the best hotel in the regions where we operate. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? Currently we have 47 hotels in Japan and 25 hotels overseas. We are aiming to increase the number of hotels up to 100 hopefully by around 2020. The region we are looking to for

our chain expansion is Asia. Until recently, we only had the Okura brand, but we now have Nikko and JAL City brands as well under the umbrella of the Okura group. This has given us a leverage to cope with development opportunities more flexibly, being able to select a brand that best suits the given conditions of any project. Our strategy is the “One Site Two Brands One Operation” that is to deploy two brands, e.g. Okura and Nikko, in one location under an integrated operation and management system. The strategy would be intensively deployed in countries like Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? What should be especially mentioned here is the rapid increase in the middle income group and wealthy class. I believe that the tourism market in Asia still has a great potential for future explosive growth.

We are proud of our excellent services to satisfy the request and desire of each and every guest individually based on a basic philosophy of “SHIN-SETU-TO-WA” or hospitaliTy and Harmony.

What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? Asian countries will review their protectionist policies and eventually various regulations or restrictive rules will be eased or removed, which will bring about the increase in trade and investment across the border. Cross-border labour division system will be established through mutual, complementary and reciprocal relations that enable them to make most of the superiority each country can enjoy respectively. Then this will have an effect to redress regional disparity and further promote the development of the Asian region.

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Peter Henley PRESIDENT and CEO OF ONYX HOSPITALITY GROUP

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What is the concept behind the brand’s legend? We have been present in the hotel industry for over 45 years. ONYX Hospitality Group is one of Asia-Pacific’s leading hospitality management companies with a portfolio of properties across Asia, with more in development over the next few years. In March 2010, the group embarked on a multi-brand expansion plan, with ONYX as the parent company of four diverse yet complementary brands – Saffron, Amari, Shama and OZO – each catering to the distinct requirements of today’s business and leisure travellers.With its brand portfolio and the capabilities of a truly international management team, ONYX offers innovative hospitality management solutions across the Indian Ocean, Arabian Gulf and Asia-Pacific regions. Looking ahead to the future, ONYX has a strategic plan to manage 81 hotels, resorts and serviced apartments by 2018. ONYX offers four brands: Saffron the luxury hotel offering, the centrepiece of ONYX’s portfolio, Amari, exuding warmth and energy of modern Asia, Shama, a leading boutique serviced apartment provider, and the all-new select service OZO. We have also been entrusted with operating many properties for owners who wish to retain their own brand under The Mosaic Collection and our standalone property Oriental Residence Bangkok, is our first luxury venture. What is the key to success of the brand under your management? I was appointed as President and CEO of ONYX Hospitality Group in 2008. At that time we managed only 14 properties in Thailand. Currently, ONYX Hospitality Group manages 51 properties/projects with 8,314 rooms. The current property portfolio consists of: • 13 Amaris (Thailand, Qatar, Bangladesh) • 4 OZOs (Hong Kong, Thailand and Sri Lanka) • 10 Shamas (China, Hong Kong and Thailand) • Oriental Residence Bangkok (Standalone) • 9 Mosaic Collection Properties (Thailand and China) The key to the success of each of our brands:

Amari There are 11 properties in Thailand and two properties overseas in Doha and Dhaka. Amari is ONYX’s most established chain of hotels. Proud of its Asian roots, Amari introduces guests to share an evolving modern Asia, creating memorable experiences that embody the spirit of local culture as well as enhancing the renowned traditions of Asian hospitality. The first Amari property to open outside of Thailand was Amari Doha. Shama

Currently, there is one property in Bangkok, four properties in Hong

especially as both business and leisure travellers are forced to assess budgets and reduce accommodation costs What is the next step in the brand’s mission?

Thailand remains an important market for us and is the essence of the Amari brand, therefore focus on the country will remain strong in the future, but it is also important for us to strengthen our portfolio in other markets, where we can showcase our Asian roots and passion for hospitality. In the next 12 months there will be big steps taken in our strategic vision to

accommodation and outlets have been redesigned to create a contemporary resort style property and in 2015 a new upscale wing will be added to the current inventory, taking the room count from 197 to 335. What do you think of the future of Asia within the world economy?

I think it is clear that the 21st century will see the rise of the Asian economy to become the dominant part of the world economy. Not only will the countries of Asia themselves grow and develop at a faster rate than most of the rest of the world, the outbound business from those Asian economies into the other economies of the world will have a significant impact. We have seen the exponential rise of the effect of those Asian economies in the last 5 years at least and there is no reason to suppose that the rise will slow down soon. Even while China is supposedly in a slow down, there are still looking to expand at 7.5% per annum and the steps they are presently taking to restructure their economy will make that economy even stronger over the long term. At the micro level of our business we are seeing significant growth in both domestic and international travel as GDP grows in most of the Asian economies thereby creating opportunities for the hospitality business within those economies and indeed further afield. It is clear that we will see the Asian traveller having an increasing impact on the hospitality industries of all the other regions of the world as well. Our own strategic growth plan is predicated on this analysis and hence the reason why we are growing our presence in China, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka and the Middle East because not only will travellers from those countries be integral to the future of our home country of Thailand but they will also create opportunities within their own countries, and will ultimately drive our expansion further afield as we “follow” those guests who we “capture” in our growth in Asia over the next few years.

Our own strategic growth plan is predicated on this analysis and hence the reason why we are growing our presence in China, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka and the Middle East because not only will travellers from those countries be integral to the future of our home country of Thailand but they will also create opportunities within their own countries Kong and five properties in China. Shama is a leading provider of luxury boutique serviced apartments in Asia, operating a variety of properties across prime commercial and residential districts in gateway cities in the region. As a lifestyle provider, Shama’s philosophy is to create serviced apartments that epitomise comfort, style and luxury. OZO

There are two properties in Thailand and two properties overseas in Hong Kong and Sri Lanka. Since developing the brand concept in 2010, we have had a lot of interest from owners and developers who are attracted by the business model that OZO offers, particularly as a result of the brands market appeal, cost effectiveness, streamlined development and ROI. Guests are looking for places to stay that provide quality services and comfort at a reasonable price. We recognise that this segment is becoming increasingly popular;

become one of Asia’s leading providers of hospitality by 2018. Key developments in the near future include the introduction of Amari Pecatu Bali in Indonesia, Amari Residences Jomtien in Pattaya, Amari Johor Bahru in Malaysia, Amari Dali and Amari Huidong in China, , OZO Penang in Malaysia, OZO Kandy and OZO Galle in Sri Lanka, Shama Pazhou Guangzhou and further two Shama properties are slated for China. In addition to our development plan, we are also investing in our existing portfolio, with significant enhancements at Amari Watergate and Amari Phuket. At Amari Watergate a brand new look was introduced earlier this year for its 948 square metre ballroom and meeting rooms, following a 3,000,000 USD investment. Executive floor accommodation and the executive lounge were also fully enhanced in 2012 and in 2013, and 120 of the grand deluxe rooms and floors were also upgraded to encompass a new modern hotel design. At Amari Phuket all current

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Sarun Limsawaddiwong Owner of S Group hotels

The concept under the brand’s legend? The brand is defined after an extensive research under the philosophy of creating the “S” brand with design, value, warmth, and modern atmosphere.We didn’t really focus on the expansion much at first. We built our first “S15” with the intension to provide a unique, modern, accommodation for modern travelers. We took what we learnt from S15 and upgrade it into S31, which adapts to the customer’s expectation but still represent the unique identity of the brand. What is the key success of the brand under your management? Managing a hotel is both science and art. We pay high attention to every detail, no matter how small it is. The advantage we have over hotel chains is the flexibility to adapt to customer’s needs and expectations. Each of our S hotels, S15, S31, S33, S Ratchada and S Box, has its own distinctive character which is customized to carter to its own target customer. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? In order to grow continuously, we need to know what customers want. Different group of customer want different product, and that’s why we customize our products to the need our customers. For example, a family with kids would want a children activity center. But all of the S hotels follow the same design philosophy that defines the characteristic of the brand clearly as you see it. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view?

Managing a hotel is both science and art. We pay high attention to every detail, no matter how small it is. The advantage we have over hotel chains is the flexibility to adapt to customer’s needs and expectations.

Western travelers used to be the majority of the visitors, but now Asian travelers have taken over the scale by number. However, I personally feel that Asia is growing without a clear direction. Moreover, Asian travelers are quite sensitive of what they hear from the media, and they would cancel the trip if they are unsure. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? After a continuous development of each property, we won’t stop here. We believe that the market still has a prosperous future. We are keeping our mind open and learn from our experiences in order to develop and strengthen our brand.

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Calvin Mak Founder & President of Rhombus International Hotels Group

The concept under the brand’s legend? Rhombus International Hotels Group aims to be one of the premier hospitality services providers, operating properties in major International cities and key destinations within Asia and Europe. Rhombus cares, and is committed to continuously delivering excellence combined with versatile services and products to our Owners/Investors and Guests, while providing varied opportunities and career development to our Employees. Each stakeholder is key to our success, and is crucial to Rhombus business philosophy of Achieving Excellence in Service, whilst Maximising Profits and Increasing Asset Values. What is the key success of the brand under your management? All Rhombus hotels are in prime locations of the city, operated under a clear focus of profit maximisation and providing guests with personalised customer services and a unique staying experience. PERSONALISED SERVICE Rhombus hotels are dedicated to offering personalised services at a stylish, sophisticated and international standard service. Such as our modern ‘R-Touch’ e-recognition program takes personalised executive accommodation to the next level. Available at all Rhombus hotels, the program enables selected guests to tailor their stay according to their preferences. From your favourite newspapers to extra pillows, our Guest Services Team invites you to pick any added detail you need to give your stay that Rhombus Touch of class. We are proudly to let you know that Hotel LKF by Rhombus, a deluxe boutique hotel located in Central has more than 50% repeated guests daily.

Rhombus International Hotels Group is continuously expanding and working towards to be the premier provider of excellent and versatile hospitality products and services on a worldwide basis.

PROFIT MAXIMISATION TO OWNERS/INVESTORS Rhombus targets to maximise profit by adding value to each project and execute effective sales and marketing strategies. The objective with any property/project is to ensure that each hotel adopts the same consistent standard in order to deliver positive return on investment (ROI) for our owners and provide guests with a distinctive experience, irrespective of type and location of Rhombus property. PEOPLE Rhombus sees staff as the most valuable asset. The individuality and uniqueness of our collective team, who are alive with ideas to create a style, is something no-one can duplicate. We train up our own people who are knowledgeable with Rhombus’ philosophy and provide cross-training so that they can experience cross-culture management and receive the opportunity to shine in various markets. PRIME LOCATION Rhombus always looks for prime locations and welcomes more choices in land use. Location is a key factor not just for a hotel to determine its positioning but also for guests to decide whether to stay in the hotel. All Rhombus hotels are located at convenient locations, just a few minutes

from MTR stations and are highly accessible to the airport, transportation hubs and main commercial and shopping areas. Each one of our hotels reflects the distinctive energy and personality of its respective location and culture. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? Rhombus International Hotels Group is continuously expanding and working towards to be the premier provider of excellent and versatile hospitality products and services on a worldwide basis. We are approached by different investors regularly from all over the world, however Rhombus selects projects carefully and believes in the right chemistry with the owner(s) before picking up a project. We never limit ourselves to any area of focus and will go wherever there is opportunity for future development. Our belief is that each client, hotel or project is unique and our services must be customised to meet those differing needs. Irrespective of geographical location, the most important aspect is to generate the best return on investment. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? With the exponential advancement of technology, the world is getting smaller day by day making transportation quicker, more efficient and accessible. Every country has eyes on the mainland China outbound travel market. I foresee continued growth of this market and specifically for Asia, as traditionally first time outbound travellers would select destinations within Asia which are closer and require less time away from work and home. As mainland China develops its infrastructure I foresee a rapid growth in the second and third tier cities in terms of inbound and domestic tourism. Apart from mainland China, I also see a growth in outbound travelers from India, especially within Asia.

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Winnie Chiu president and executive director of Dorsett Hospitality International

The concept under the brand’s legend? Headquartered in Hong Kong, Dorsett Hospitality International, is one of the fastest growing hotel companies in Asia. We operate under three hotel brands:- the upscale and midscale Dorsett Hotels & Resorts with two hotel labels, midscale Dorsett hotels and upscale Dorsett Grand hotels; d.Collection comprising a range of upscale charismatic boutique hotels; and the value-led Silka Hotels; Currently we owns over 30 hotels in China, Hong Kong, United Kingdom, Singapore and Malaysia; including eight more scheduled to open within the next two years in China, Hong Kong, United Kingdom and Malaysia. Our DNA is based on ‘Asia meets Britain’ philosophy and we strive to radiate this through the interior design of each of our hotels, in particular the new hotels that are already online and those that will be operational in the new future; as well as those that are presently undergoing refurbishment/ renovation. We constantly pursue our ‘Chinese Wallet’ business strategy and aim to bring Asian-inspired hospitality to the world combined with our goal of engaging and inspiring our guests through our commitment to offer superb service. What is the key success of the brand under your management? The over-arching success of our brands is of course consistently meeting the varied needs of Asia’s ever-rising number of travellers and delivering a true experiential stay complemented with high quality service. Each of our brands have its own recipe for brand success such asd.

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Collection hotels represent the most unique selection of hotels in our group. The hotels are located in prime locations, carefully chosen for their proximity to the pulse of each city, with exciting dining, shopping and entertainment all within reach.For example Lan Kwai Fong @ Kau U Fong. It’s décor is authentically Oriental and its strategic location within Central at the Lan Kwai Fong (the hub for shopping, dining and unlimited entertainment spots) area caters to guests in search of inspiration, excitement and something a little extraordinary. The success of our contemporary Dorsett hotels lie in the location of each hotel located within prime areas enabling both business and leisure travellers instant, easy access to city centres and business districts; and anchored in Asian traditions of hospitality with flashes

in every guestroom and featured in some of our hotels in Hong Kong. This solution aims to bring unprecedented convenience and 24-hour connectivity to the guests with a series of value-added features including 24-hour free use of 3G internet and personal hotspot for multi-device connectivity, unlimited local calls and IDD calls up to five countries namely United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Singapore, and China For the more mature travellers, the Dorsett Grand hotels take pride in delivering service excellence and inspirational experiences through its elegant and tastefully designed interiors matched with unparalleled dining facilities. The Silka hotels on the other hand is successful as these hotels meet the demand of the value-savvy and smart traveller. Silka hotels offer the best convenience and comfort, providing hassle-free hospitality essentials

The success of our contemporary Dorsett hotels lie in the location of each hotel located within prime areas enabling both business and leisure travellers instant, easy access to city centres and business districts; and anchored in Asian traditions of hospitality with flashes of eclectic British touches. of eclectic British touches. Designs of Dorsett hotels are fun, innovative and offer a host of technology driven facilities such as iPod dock and smart phones as well as complimentary WiFi access. Take for example the design of Dorsett Shepherds Bush in London which ride on the history of the building which used to be a cinema and is just 5-minute walk to Westfield Shopping Mall or Dorsett Kuala Lumpur which is located within the business, shopping and entertainment of the Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle. The smart handy phone is available

such as in-room mini bar stocked with supermarket pricing, value added experience via their room key cards which offers discounts at participating merchants/retailers. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? The next step forward is to continue to aggressively drive brand recognition in particular within our target audience and continue with our pursuit of the ‘Chinese wallet’ strategy. To achieve this, we will refine the brand standards in our hotels through the governance

of our Core Values, sponsor community events, strengthen our relationship and promote our brand with business partners, including the airlines and; with both the online and off-line travel agents. Over the next several years, we intend to increase our presence in countries that are members of the Commonwealth, such as Britain, Singapore and Malaysia; and focusing on key cities where we already have presence as well as other parts of Asia and SE Asia, Australia and potentially continental Europe. I totally believe there’s opportunity to grow our brand even if it is within one single location or city as we have multiple brands that cater to the different markets; and hence am confident that these hotels will not cannibalise one another in a single market place. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future with the implementation of AEC which is supposed to begin in 2015. With a market of around 600 million people, Asean is the 7th largest economy in the world at present and had the 3rd largest GDP in Asia in 2013 at USD2.3 trillion. Asean Economic Community (AEC), which will create a single market with free movement of goods, services and investment, will open up business opportunities. At the same time, the opening of a regional market will result in huge growth in the tourism sector. Being one of the fastest growing hotel groups in Asia, Dorsett Hospitality International is seeing an increase in intra-regional travel. It should become easier for people of the region to get visas and work across borders. And because of the formation of the AEC, foreign business visitors to Asean should grow. Therefore, Asean is increasingly attractive as an investment destination for us and other hotel groups. As we can see, international hotel groups are now aggressively expanding into Asean. Take our group as an example, we are strategically opening more hotels in this region: Dorsett Singapore opened in Mar 2013; Silka Cheras Kuala Lumpur opened in May 2014; Dorsett Putrajaya and Dorsett Hartamas will come on line in 2015. Our 1st hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Dorsett Kuala Lumpur is at present upgrading its facilities and services; and we are still actively pursuing further opportunities in this region to expand our footprints. *AEC countries: Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Cambodia, and Brunei.

Lilian Roten Vice President, Swissôtel Brand, Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts

The concept under the brand’s legend? Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts combines renowned Swiss hospitality with locally inspired flair. It features a portfolio of over 30 high-end hotels that focus on fresh innovation and contemporary Swiss style. Conveniently located where business and leisure travellers want to be, it provides guests with the opportunity to stay in the heart of city centers worldwide. Every Swissôtel upholds Swiss sustainability standards, endeavouring to treat guests, team members, and the environment with equal respect. What is the key success of the brand under your management? With our roots embedded in Switzerland as way back as 1988, this is something we have always held close to our hearts. In doing so, it has

to our guests when they stay in our hotels via things that represent quality in their lives. We convey this through different guest touch points, which we label “Guest Essentials”. It is about the right product and service for the right guest at the right time – and all with quality and reliability in mind. For instance, business travelers on the road have our Vitality Program (aimed at connecting with both body and mind), which has an in-room fitness and culinary component. Another example is through our distinct interior design, which often displays local craftsmanship, making for a unique and meaningful experience. This is why we partnered with Swiss haute couture fabric manufacturer Jacob Schläpfer to customize a wall paper design featuring alpine flowers that is used in our Signature rooms at Swissôtel Métropole in Geneva Switzerland, our Executive Lounge at the Swissôtel Nankai in

Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts combines renowned Swiss hospitality with locally inspired flair to attract business and leisure travelers certainly helped the brand stand out and excel. There are several ways we display our Swissness – for example, our properties have elements of the destination and our Swiss heritage imbued in them; spaces have both form and function; the atmosphere is stimulating and comforting at the same time. The infrastructure and architecture is kept contemporary yet, at the same time, on the inside, we are a little more playful and daring in terms of the furniture and materials we use. Another element that has ensured our success is how we provide comfort, joy and connection

Osaka Japan, and our newly renovated rooms at Swissôtel Amsterdam in Holland. A third factor in our success is in being able to create unique destinations in each of our hotels’ local community, and aiming to deliver on an emotional level. A good example is our all-day-dining restaurant in Zurich. It represents an urban eatery, where you are welcomed as you are; where your dish reflects the season and your waiter entertains you with a story about a local farmer and his or her passion for regional produce. This

philosophy is a principle shared across all our locations, where our hotels all-day-dining restaurants have a seasonal, regional and organic approach when it comes to developing their menus. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? The future certainly looks very bright for Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts. As a group, we are on track with our growth plans with a focus on emerging markets including China, the Middle East and Turkey, as well as other exciting destinations in Europe and the rest of Asia. We currently have 11 hotels operating in Asia in China, Thailand, Singapore, Japan and Australia. A twelfth will open in 2015 in Chengdu, with others lined up in Changsha, Sanya, and Hangzhou. As our first hotel in Western China, Swissôtel Chengdu is set within the nearby finance and technology district that will expose us to around 1.4 million workers and 1.7 million inhabitants. We are particularly optimistic about China and will maintain our brand presence there in cities such as Shanghai and Beijing, and will look to create a greater footprint in secondary cities as well. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? If the tourism numbers are anything to go by, we are very optimistic about Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years. Last year, the growth of tourism arrivals was the strongest in Asia Pacific at 6 percent, to reach 248 million. We expect this momentum to keep up. In particular, Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts has identified the China market as a key area for

growth. We currently have 31 hotels worldwide,of which 4 are in China – Beijing, Foshan, Shanghai and Kunshan. However, there are significant plans in the pipeline to increase that number over the next five years to strengthen the brand and establish it as an upper-upscale hotel group in the minds of the Chinese. Cities that we expect to open a Swissôtel property include Chengdu, Changsha, Hangzhou and Sanya. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? We feel that traveling is no longer a privilege but a right. People want to see and, more importantly, experience a greater part of the world – they are also interested in knowing what happens behind the scenes. At the same time, we recognise that they aspire towards quality in life while they travel, by staying healthy, which is why we created initiatives like the Vitality program. We also recognize that travellers seek to relax and enjoy peace of mind. This has spurred Swissôtel to have a dedicated commitment to excellence at all our properties. One way we have achieved this is from the various certifications we have been awarded through the years. In 2010, we attained the global ISO certification (including a recertification in 2012). The certifications were in the areas of Environmental Management (ISO 14001), Health & Safety Management (OHSAS 18001), and Quality Management (ISO 9001). In 2013, Swissôtel was also globally certified for Food Safety (ISO 22000).

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Loh Lik Peng director, Unlisted Collection

The concept under the brand’s legend? We don’t have a concept as such because the group is all about doing unique properties so we will do virtually any project that seems like fun. Admittedly all our hotels are in heritage buildings and it’s our favourite sort of project but we like doing a huge variety of things and we like challenging buildings in difficult locations. What is the key success of the brand under your management? We like to have fun in everything we do and every project must have that fun factor but really we don’t focus too much on brands. We like to do individualistic things so we have never done more than one brand per property. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? To do more interesting hotels and also to keep ourselves current. We don’t have a specific mission or goal in mind so we only take on projects that we feel we can add something to and that will be fun. So we don’t have any specific plans right now other than to open our new property in Sydney next year. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? It’s going to be interesting because of the growth of China, India and Indonesia. These are enormous markets that are growing their middle classes and also whetting their appetites to travel and explore. We in Singapore are in the midst of this growth triangle so it’s going to be interesting to see how far we can go to capture the trends in these growing markets. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? I think the youth travel market and also trend and design driven markets are going to come to the fore much more than the cheap accommodation type mass tourism we have seen so far from markets like China and that is going to be exciting to see because that segment of the market is much more sophisticated and demanding and they will require new types of hotel and tourism product

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We like to have fun in everything we do and every project must have that fun factor but really we don’t focus too much on brands.

Maria Kuhn Vice President Public Relations

The rest are all owned by different ownersmanaged by Kempinski. This is can be challengingas we say that we are a European company and we call ourselves a collection of individuals. Our portfolio is diverse, and there are no 2 identical hotels. Each hotel is individual yet carries a common denominator such as Kempinski’s high standard of service delivery. Some hotels aren’t even known as Kempinski, for example, Emirates Palace. So a lot of people don’t realize they are actually in a Kempinski Hotel. We are okay with that because the heritage name comes first and we embrace the personality and individuality of the property. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? Asia is booming. I’ve been in Asia for over 8 years and I saw phenomenal development in the travel industry. Looking at the number of new airports and airports that are being upgraded, we immediately know that they are expecting more travelers. There is a new middle- and upper-class that have a lot of disposable income which wasn’t the case 20 years ago. Now everybody travels! People are willing to embrace travel and go where they haven’t been before. They are more adventurous as well. The number of outbound travelers is huge, but at the same time we see more people traveling within the country too. The concept under the brand’s legend? It’s been 117 years since we were founded in Germany. Our main base is still in Europe and that differentiates our company from other hotel chains that have grown out of USA or Asia. Our most distinctive difference is our European flair. Every single property of Kempinski Hotelswould has European touch to it, for example, the big European breakfast, offering at least 100 different items whilst at the same timeincorporating a local touch as well. What is the key success of the brand under your management? Kempinski Hotels came up with the idea of the “Lady in red” because we

want to have a person in the lobby that people instantly recognize and can go to if they have any question. The concierge handles any kind of business outside the hotel such as theater or restaurant reservations, while anything inside the hotel, i.e. spa treatments,

in house restaurant reservations, is handled by the lady in red. We were the first international hotel company that went into China and are the oldest international hotel company present in Russia. We are pioneers and always look at new markets very early on.

We were the first international hotel company that went into China and we are the oldest international hotel company in Russia.

3. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? Our focus was in Europe, but we’ve signed some joint-ventures with other entities. For instance, we’ve been in China for over 20 years, but we do not own our properties. We own only 2 properties out of 74 properties worldwide.

What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? The big challenge is finding the right staff and talent as there are so many large developments in the hospitality sector and everybody wants to grab the same people to work for them. I call it the “War for talent”. In my opinion, the problem becomes more difficult in Asia because staff don’t really have much job loyalty. They get offered a new job and they move on. In addition to the shortage of staff, the hospitality industry is the largest employer in the world, and yet a lot of people don’t want to go in the industry because they think that the working hours are long and the pay is not that good. Our task is to make the industry attractive.

Savitri Ramyarupa Chatrium Hotels & Residences

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The Concept behind the Brand’s Legend Chatrium Hotels & Residences is a premium collection of luxury properties in two legendary cities, Bangkok and Yangon. In recognition of its founder, Khun Chatri Sophopanich, the hotel group was named “Chatrium”. The name Chatri is synonymous with pride of service, vision of heritage, warmth and friendliness, and best value. Khun Chatri is currently the Chairman of the Bangkok Bank Plc and the iconic head of the Sophonphanich family, one of the most prominent entrepreneurs and respected names in Thailand. As an outstanding individual, Chatri brings the distinctive essence and heritage of success to the brand. Created with our guests in mind, the Chatrium brand represents quality product and service accented with a personal touch focusing on friendliness and a warm welcome of Thai hospitality in all aspects. It is genuine, intimate, intuitive and above all, remarkable. What is the key success of the brand under your management? In this age of the customer, hotels differentiate themselves from their competitors through the relationships they have with their customers. The key success is all about our people who are empowered to do their job. They are, after all, the ones who create the emotional connection (engagement) between our guests and the Chatrium brand. There is pride in being a part of Chatrium and our staff is proud to serve. When we hire a person, it is as if we adopt the person into our Chatrium family. Chatrium teamwork and family-like environment are our most valuable assets and our unique advantage for success. The ability to deliver personalized tailor-made service, focus on guest stay experience and make them feel nurtured is essential to retaining and converting our guests to brand advocates.

When a guest checks out in at any of our Chatrium properties, the majority of credit belongs to the impeccable service and warmth of our staff. Our contemporary designed properties with environmental-friendly amenities and technology only sets the stage. An impression quote made by one of our guests says it all, “It is not the place you visit that makes a memorable holiday but the people you meet.” What is the brand mission in the next step? “Live The Remarkable, Everyday” is our mission and will remain as Chatrium continues to evolve. Aside from our mission to provide consistently comfortable stays, we want a smile in our guests which reflects having a good time, having fun, enjoying one self and deriving pleasure from their time with us. This is also a reflection of our personalized, tailored-made service. A

communicates, books, talks and feedback to the operation. Moreover, Chatrium has a strategic business plan for domestic expansion. In the next 3 to 5 years, we plan to open three new properties – one in Bangkok and two in Phuket. Meanwhile, we also look for opportunities to invest overseas to take advantage of the AEC’s benefits. Asia’s Tourism Market in the Next 2 Years in Your Own View Asia-Pacific growth will continue to be world-watched. Having said this, there is a keen sense of opportunities in Asia, specifically the Southeast Asian region, for business leaders and investors from within and outside Asia. In view of the upcoming ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), which will be officially effective on December 31st this year, the 10 ASEAN countries will be a single market and production

airlines that allow it to compete with other nearby emerging markets such as Vietnam, Moreover, its infrastructure would benefit from government investment projects. In particular the train network, including high-speed train, offers a prime opportunity growth. For software connectivity, the government has put efforts on policy and regulatory integration in order to facilitate the economic activity thoroughly and deliver associated services and utilities etc. In terms of visitor arrivals, I believe that Asia’s tourism market will expand dramatically in the next 2 years. According to key findings from Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), the forecast numbers for Asia Pacific Visitors from 2014 to 2018 suggest that visitor arrivals to the Asia Pacific region will continue to grow and even reach 660 million by 2018. If the prediction holds true, we can expect phenomenal tourism market growth in our region.

“Live The Remarkable” is our mission and will remain as Chatrium continues to evolve. Aside from our mission to provide consistently comfortable stays, we want a smile in our guests which reflects having a good time, having fun, enjoying one self and deriving pleasure from their time with us. This is also a reflection of our personalized, tailored-made service. stay at Chatrium means a happy travel experience for each guest, individual or in a group, whether on business or at leisure, daily or extended stay, all experiencing our unique location in key/ landmark areas, our spacious rooms, and our bespoke service beyond expectations. Moreover, Chatrium continues to improve the performance of our existing properties complemented by technology. We keep rejuvenating our rooms and facilities, as well as enhancing our technology and social networking. Investing in digital media in all forms and social media marketing is the way forward - how the guest

based via the hardware and software connectivity. The tourism and hotels industry is one of the outstanding areas which benefits from the ASEAN connectivity. The easier process and less documentation and fees will boost the intra-regional tourism and hotels industry. Thailand is a potential big player in this industry with its strategic location bordered by the 4 countries of Malaysia, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos. In regards to hardware connectivity, Thailand will be well placed to take advantage of increases in inbound and outbound tourism, with relatively developed transport infrastructure, including a network of domestic and international airports and

Last but not least, on top of these findings, Thailand is listed among the Top Five Fastest Growth Destinations during 2014 to 2018, so I think we are going to have a very exciting and competitive year to come. What Direction of the New Asia Which You Foresee in the Future?

This century Asia is expected by many to become the dominant economic and political regional force. Emerging markets will continue to drive growth in the travel and tourism industry brought about by stronger economy prospects and the rising income growth in Southeast Asian economies. Future consumers are likely to expand from one big new market – the middle class market. The middle income population in ASEAN is expected to reach 300 million in the next decade. China also has rising growth in the middle class income population.

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we have stellar hotels in the destinations where our guests want to travel. I’m proud to say that, in the past five years amidst the ever-competitive hotel space of independent and lifestyle hotel brands, Preferred Hotel Group has extended its offerings into more than 20 new countries and brought on world-renowned hotels such as The Siam in Thailand and The Mark in New York City into our brand mix. What is the brand mission in the next step? The hotel industry is seeing a rapid shift in consumer preference, with travelers veering away from the traditional franchise brands and instead gravitating towards independent, lifestyle-driven hotel experiences that introduce them to something new and give them memories to take home and share with family and friends. At the same time, consumers’ expectations for those memorable experiences are becoming more discerning and individualized than ever before. Although Preferred Hotel Group has been offering these types of bespoke independent hotel experiences for the past 46 years, we understand that evolution in our approach to consumers is vital to the success of our brand and our partner hotels worldwide. Therefore, we are currently working to identify ways to strengthen awareness of the Preferred Hotel Group brand among consumers worldwide and, in the months ahead, will unveil a new suite of unique products, thoughtful services, and easy-to-use tools to better cater to the new ways consumers want to travel and access travel information. This initiative, which will be heavily reflected through web and mobile programs, will include continued development of iPrefer to ensure we maintain the loyalty of our guests by delivering innovative new benefits and valuable opportunities. And, we will also look at what new experiences we can offer in addition to our Preferred Family, Preferred Pride and Preferred Golf programs to further cater to the demands and desires of travelers seeking a personalized experience, whether that is a romantic getaway, a culinary adventure, or an off-the-grid rejuvenation retreat.

Lindsey Ueberroth President & CEO of Preferred Hotel Group

What is the concept under the brand’s legend? Preferred Hotel Group is the world’s largest independent luxury hotel brand, committed to delivering one-of-a-kind hotel experiences as a refreshing, authentic alternative to traditional brand-in-a-box accommodation options. Through our branded websites and our diverse portfolio of more than 650 luxury hotels, resorts, and serviced residences in 85 countries, Preferred Hotel Group serves as a trusted one-stop resource for discerning consumers who crave the authentic perspective of an independent hotel stay that consists of the highest quality of personalized service, thoughtful and localized programming, and an inspiring setting. What is the key success of the brand under your management? I joined Preferred Hotel Group in 2004 when my family took ownership of the company and, since then, have served in several roles, including president from 2010 to the present. Over the past four years, Preferred Hotel Group’s success has been its ability to keep travelers engaged with our brands and coming back to our websites and member hotels again and again for their various travel needs. We have been able to capture the attention and interest of consumers worldwide by introducing new programs

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that enhance the on-property experience and showcase the benefits of staying at an independent hotel. To achieve this, we have introduced a collection of branded programs that speak to travelers with special interests, needs, and expectations from their hotel. Most recently, we launched the iPrefer guest loyalty program, which extends points and special benefits such as complimentary Internet, room upgrades, and bonus points earnings to loyal travelers upon stays at more than 500 participating hotels worldwide, which range from notable new-to-the-scene names such as The Beaumont in London to long-standing icons such as Azur in Queenstown, New Zealand. Other branded programs we have introduced over the past several years to capture emerging travel trends include Preferred Pride, Preferred Family, and Preferred Golf. A main factor in our brand’s success with today’s affluent consumers is making sure

What is the direction that Asia’s tourism market going to take in the next 2 years in your own view? Travel and tourism will continue to be robust in Asia over the next two years, although specific travel patterns may change with any economic or political situations that may arise. China will continue to be a major focus for the travel industry in Asia with the number of outbound Chinese travelers expected to exceed 120 million by the end of 2014 and certainly grow exponentially into 2015 and beyond. Australia is also a major source of outbound travel for many countries in Asia. However, with the weakening of the Australian dollar and projected slow-down of the economy overall, Australian travelers may look to more domestic travel options in the year ahead. Vietnam and the Philippines are up-and-coming destinations with much potential for growth rates from 10 to 20 percent, especially with the establishment of more connectivity within the Asia Pacific region through low-cost airline carriers and the respective governments investing in and improving on tourism infrastructure in each country. We expect major destinations like Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Tokyo to continue to see large annual visitor arrivals, but perhaps not in the high growth rates experienced over the last few years. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? Growing affluence and a rising middle class, especially from emerging economies in many Asian countries, is beginning to fuel an increase in demand among Asian travelers for more independent, authentic travel experiences. This shift in consumer preference has already begun to influence the industry to introduce more hotels that both feature upscale and bespoke accommodation options and offer programming that is designed to help travelers immerse themselves in the experiential aspect of the journey – whether they choose to explore local culture or a destination’s historical heritage, try a variety of local cuisine, or spend time interacting with locals – rather than on Asia’s favorite past-time – shopping.

We have been able to capture the attention and interest of consumers worldwide by introducing new programs that enhance the on-property experience and showcase the benefits of staying at an independent hotel

Paul Kerr CEO for Small Luxury Hotels of the World

The concept under the brand’s legend? Small Luxury Hotels of the World is a brand champion for small independent luxury hotels across the world. We aim to help these hoteliers compete and stand out in a global market against international players. Unlike large chain hotels which offer cookie-cutter rooms and services, we are focused on curating unique, independent and boutique-sized luxury hotels, as we believe that increasingly-discerning travellers are on the rise to seek out special experiences. We celebrate the individuality of each of our hotels – which is what sets us apart from our competitors. Because each hotel is handpicked, consumers come to trust that SLH is the curator for small independent luxury hotels, and it’s very important that we safeguard this sentiment by ensuring each hotel continues to offer exceptional service and experiences. What is the key success of the brand under your management? The business was started in 1990 and there are numerous successes as we celebrate our 25th anniversary next year. The key to our success is in our endless pursuit of ensuring we deliver the most exceptional and stringent hotel offerings to our consumers by curating new hotels that join the brand as well as inspecting the current hotels to assure their quality. In doing so, we have seen our club membership grow to a robust number of over 350,000 members globally. In addition, refusing to rest on our laurels, we continue to seek out more unique hotels across the globe to ensure consumers find the suitable hotel of their preference. We now have over 520 hotels in more than 80 countries, and the diversity of the hotels is exceptional – ranging from cutting-edge design hotels to palatial 17th century mansions, city centre sanctuaries to remote private islands, as well as historic country houses to idyllic resorts. All these have translated in our continued growth in our bookings and revenue. We are 14% ahead in revenue, from US$94 million in 2014 YTD compared to US$85 million in 2013. We have also seen a 5% increase in room nights compared to the same time last year, achieving 248,000 room nights in 2014 YTD compared to 237,000 room nights in 2013.

What is the brand’s mission in the next step? We want to ensure we are ahead of the curve in the evolving luxury traveler trends. In order to offer a diverse range of offerings to the consumer, we have recently launched “Private Residences by SLH”, a new sub-brand dedicated to curating the exclusive-use of private villas and residences. We will continue to develop unique offerings and programmes for both member hotels and club members. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) predicts Asia’s travel and tourism industry will grow by more than 6% each year - the fastest expansion rate of any region in the world, according to Forbes.

The key to our success is in our endless pursuit of ensuring we deliver the most exceptional and stringent hotel offerings to our consumers by curating new hotels that join the brand as well as inspecting the current hotels to assure their quality.

The promising figures are not just reflective of mass travel in general, but are a reflection of the demand of luxury travel in Asia. Increasing wealth of consumers within the region will definitely transform Asia into the hotspot for luxury destinations. Also, as travelers become increasingly discerning, we expect the Asian tourism market to evolve to suit the travelers’ needs – in offering more personalization and experiential services as compared to the run-off-the-mill packages. There will

also be a move towards thematic and designed led accommodation for travelers who are seeking to stand out from the crowd. Of course, social media’s influence will be sure to have an increasing influence on travelers’ choices.

expected to slowly re-emerge as a luxury destination. Thailand, despite its maturity and political turmoil earlier this year, will recover speedily and continue to attract international luxury travellers. Lombok in Indonesia will be an upcoming luxury hotspot in Asia.

What direction of the new Asia will you foresee in the future? I foresee new Asia to be a luxury hotbed for travelers. Besides increased in tourist arrivals in Myanmar, Japan is

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Thirayuth Chirathivat Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Centara Hotels and Resorts PHOTO By : Forbes Thailand

The concept under the brand’s legend? ‘Cen’ is from Central, which is our parent company and which has a long reputation in retailing in Thailand, dating back more than 60 years. And ‘tara’ in Thai means ‘water’. We believe water means life, so when these two parts come together as ‘Centara’, it sounds exotic and meaningful. We felt this brand name would well received amongst all markets, both local and international. We rebranded from Central Hotels & Resorts to Centara Hotels & Resorts in 2007. What is the key success of the brand under your management? A good brand is very clear to all stakeholders (our associates, suppliers and our customers) on its objectives, its communication and its delivery. This has been my focus and direction - to create a quality product, identify its customers, communicate clearly, and deliver totally. Our brands are for today. Our core brands are in the quality 4 to value 5-star segments, and our aim is to exceed expectation and deliver the Thai-style hospitality that is world renowned, without being too Asian and alienating part of our customer base, particularly those from outside the region or our younger Asian customers looking for a more exciting international experience. In a nutshell, it’s about having core values which can embrace change. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? Through the professionalism and warmth of Centara and its people, to provide high quality, international standard hospitality, enriched with Thai family traditions to create “home-away-from-home” experiences that will become everlasting memories. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? Certainly Asian markets will become increasingly more important to our business. Throughout the region we have a growing segment of the population that are being educated to be the consumers of the future, they will have disposable income, and experiences through the travel factor are high on their wish list. Our properties have to adapt to this. We have a traditional international

market of long-stay guests, and we need to ensure our properties blend services that continue to appeal to this traditional audience but also excite the shorter stay Asian guest, who in general is more active and wanting to experience varied things during a short stay. With this market comes a customer who does not want to plan too far in advance and as stated wants to travel for short periods of time. All this needs to be blended into a business operation, and we need to embrace change to continue success. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? As the western world heads out of economic troubles, Asia has a set of challenges of its own to overcome.Slowing China growth, other economic challenges of Northern Asia, Thailand’s recent uncertainties, and other challenges in South East Asia, particularly in Malaysia and Indonesia. Counter that with the opportunities AEC will potentially deliver to our region and really it’s all about an individual company’s ability to focus and drive opportunity. I do believe we have to look more “inward” within the region for our longer term growth than to the world at large. Our population is being educated to be the consumers of the future, we must embrace this opportunity and ensure our brand is one of this growing market’s choice.

A good brand is very clear to all stakeholders (our associates, suppliers and our customers) on its objectives, its communication and its delivery. This has been my focus and direction - to create a quality product, identify its customers, communicate clearly, and deliver totally.

Jean Keijdener Ascott’s country general manager for thailand

The concept under the brand’s legend? Started from a single property in Singapore back in 1984, today Ascott has grown to become the world’s largest international owner-operator of serviced residences, with more than 36,000 apartment units across over 200 properties in more than 20 countries worldwide. This year Ascott boasts a 30-year track record we have been offering international-class accommodation for discerning business and leisure travellers in a unique environment and memorable experience through personalised and seamless services from our three award-winning serviced residence brands; Ascott, Citadines and Somerset. What is the key success of the brand under your management? The cornerstone of Ascott and our success are our signature Heartware values and service motto. Our well-trained staffs are pleased to offer a warm welcome with a personal touch and true care combined with an extensive local knowledge to ensure every guest feels at home. We also believe in going the extra mile in service and we constantly innovate to enhance value to stay ahead.

Talking about the future of Asian travellers and trends, I think young people are the fastest growing travel niche. Tech-savvy tourists, the female business and medical tourism are rapidly growing opportunities too. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? In Thailand Ascott currently operates nine properties in prime locations in Bangkok. This year we are taking the next step by extending our footprint to Thailand’s Eastern Seaboard economic region. Scheduled to open late 2014, the new Citadines Grand Central Sri Racha, in Chonburi, will enhance Ascott’s pole to position the company as the largest international serviced residence owner-operator in Thailand. The growing foreign direct investment has driven demand for serviced residences and we will continue to strengthen our business in Thailand and reinforce our reputation as the leading international serviced residence owner-operator.

Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? I would say Asia will be the major force among the international tourism market and China will hold the key role in global tourism while India and the Middle East will see a significant increase. The Japanese market has rebound sharply and is still one of Thailand’s key feeders market also in the business travel segment. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? Large aviation companies will continue to jump-start the low-cost-airlines and these budget carriers will agree on joint long-haul services too. This could emerge as a crucial link to the growth of the middle class and shoestring budget travellers. All these events are sure triggers for the start of a price war among all the major players. However, I personally think that price war is certainly not the way to gain the upper hand. Offering added value instead of lower prices makes more sense to me as they are more likely to cultivate a stronger customer loyalty while providing a competitive advantage. I think young people are the fastest growing travel niche. Tech-savvy tourists, the female business and medical tourism are rapidly growing opportunities too.

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Anthony McDonald CEO of Bespoke Hospitality Management Asia (BHMAsia) and Founder of X2 (CrossTo) Design Hotel Group

The concept under the brand’s legend? Properties by X2 appeal to people who appreciate style in a genuine, pure sense. Almost an anti-brand; X2 does what large properties cannot do, and a lot of that comes back to being human and unpretentious. Whether it is design or service, X2 executes new ideas, not for the sake of it, but to deliver a unique sensual experience that is becoming so increasingly difficult to find in luxury holidays. X2 Resorts and Residences are an experience that feeds the soul and rewards the senses in a down to earth way. X2 owners and guests are not pretenders, nor out to impress. They are drawn to X2 because it is real, unique, stylish and relaxed……..just like them. What is the key success of the brand under your management? Our success has come from our unique and clearly defined marketing and positioning. Pushing our consistent marketing message with high quality advertising has reinforced the brand. Both our product and services support the brand promise and character, providing guests a total brand experience that is real and authentic. What is the brand’s mission in the next step?

Our success has come from our unique and clearly defined marketing and positioning. Pushing our consistent marketing message with high quality advertising has reinforced the brand. Both our product and services support the brand promise and character, providing guests a total brand experience that is real and authentic.

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In 2015 we are looking to expand in the ASEAN region and into China. By collaborating with developers and investor groups will see the brand grow quickly, as momentum and awareness of the brand continue to increase. We will be focusing on refining the brand and the services behind it, particularly in the food and beverages areas. Resort residence projects will be opening and support the expansion for the brand into the residence arena. Post 2015 we will see the gradual roll out on an opportunistic basis in Europe and the Middle East. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? Growth will be underpinned by general strong economic factors, improved logistics and affordability of travel and continued development of tourist attractions in the region. Inter-regional travel will continue to dominate, as growth is slow in coming from Europe and the Americas. Evolution of online channels will continue and this will challenge hotel groups to adapt and adopt new forms of sales and promotion methods. Travellers are becoming very sophisticated very quickly. Independent travel will push forward and challenge hoteliers and tour operators. Demands from guests will increase, and mean rethinking both product and experience offered to guests. Accommodation could take on new demands, away from typical hotel offerings, creating new opportunities for niche and boutique operators. Brands will continue to be important, with new brands being created to service guest’s demands that are not serviced by the traditional brands. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? Each country will struggle to maintain its identity going forward. Communications and the ease of travel within the regional will blur the lines of culture and national identity. Pockets of local specializations will develop, that provide Asians the opportunity to service their needs, regardless of the location.

Andreas Mattmüller Chief Operating Officer Middle East and Asia for Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts

What is the brand’s mission in the next step? Ensuring that our values and brand promise are embedded in all our new properties. Last year we identified ‘Natural Enjoyment’ as the brand promise and key differentiator of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, which is about delivering a personalised, relaxed and uncomplicated experience that makes guests happy. All our employees around the globe were trained on practical ways to consistently deliver on this brand promise, which is aligned to our values of quality, reliability and care with a personal touch. Providing a fantastic quality of service and creating great stories for our guests to take away with them, is very important for us so that would always be a priority as we grow. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? All indicators point towards Asia continuing to lead the global growth in tourism. The rapidly expanding middle classes in India and China, who have the means and desire to travel, are likely to result in regional destinations doing well. Open skies as well as easy or no visas for regional tourists, improve accessibility and airport extensions like the ones in Phuket and Hanoi support this further. As a result and in line with our own brand’s strategic objectives, we are continuing to develop hotels in Asia to support this demand. We currently operate seven hotels in Asia and 20 projects are under development.

The concept under the brand’s legend? Mövenpick was founded by Ueli Prager, the son of a Swiss hotelier. With a vision of serving premium-quality food, he opened his first restaurant in Zurich in 1948. His success led him to open a variety of companies, and in 1973, he followed in his father’s footsteps and entered the hotel industry. Today, Mövenpick is not only a hotel management company, but an international corporation offering a synergetic range of products and services across a wide spectrum of industries. Characterised by its Swiss origins and deep roots in food, wine and hospitality, the company is renowned for its reputation of delivering quality and reliability coupled with careful personalisation to local markets. What is the key success of the brand under your management Continued growth, at a sustainable pace. Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has always believed in organic growth and I’m very proud that we’ve managed to consolidate our developments to maintain a balanced portfolio distribution. This ensures that decision-making is effective, resources are efficiently utilised and development is sustainable, which is particularly important considering our aim to have 100 properties open around the world by 2017. We currently operate 81 hotels in 25 countries and presently have over 25 projects under development worldwide, with seven properties set to open within the next 12 months in Saudi Arabia, India, Thailand and Turkey. Asia is becoming increasingly significant and we are venturing into new places like Pakistan, where we opened Mövenpick Hotel Karachi earlier this year. Many of our future openings are in countries that are new to the portfolio, including Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Indonesia, Mongolia and Bangladesh.

What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? China is already the world’s largest outbound tourist feeder market and although growth should continue, I believe that there is great potential in the ASEAN region for additional expansion and guest loyalty. Our hotel services and experiences have shifted from traditionally catering to mostly Western travellers, to now meeting the needs of Asian customers. The region will also be an important area for our brand, as we plan to open new properties in Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and Vietnam.

Continued growth, at a sustainable pace. Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has always believed in organic growth

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Alan Watts Chief Operating Officer, Asia, Middle East and Africa, IHG

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What are the brands under IHG and how is it different from other hotel companies? InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) operates a diverse portfolio of nine brands, including some of the world’s most recognised names such as: InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts and Holiday Inn Express. Through our industry-leading market segmentation and our deep understanding of our customers and their needs, we have also created some exciting new brands, such as HUALUXE Hotels & Resorts, the first international brand designed specifically for the Chinese guest; and EVEN Hotels, the first mainstream lifestyle hotel brand in the wellness space. We opened our first EVEN hotel earlier this year in Norwalk, Connecticut, and we are looking forward to the opening of our first HUALUXE hotel in China in 2014. Developing and nurturing our brands means that our guests are assured consistent and great experiences at all our properties. We believe focusing on the needs of our guests and the occasions they travel for will help deliver loyalty and brand preference, which in turn deliver a better return on investment to us and to our owners who choose to operate under our brands. What is the key to IHG’s strategy for growth? Key to our success and strategic growth is our people, who are at the heart of our company. Our people strategy is designed around attracting, retaining and developing the best talent in the industry; whilst engaging and energising our existing colleagues. The hospitality industry is a service sector, and our people are the ones who bring our award-winning brands to life by delivering on our vision to create Great Hotels Guests Love through great guest experiences.Being in the people business, we also believe the industry has a role to play in developing the right people for the sector. At IHG our focus is on building local capability to support our current and future growth. Across AMEA, we

have over 39,000 employees across our hotels and corporate offices and are looking to fill 20,000 new roles by 2015. Key to delivering on our target is our IHG Academy programme – a pioneering global collaboration between IHG and local education and community providers. The programme aims to provide people with skills development and employment opportunities and create a sustainable talent pipeline for IHG. We currently have more than 300 IHG Academy programmes worldwide. To date over 10,000 participants have benefitted from the IHG Academy programme globally.

changing expectations of our guests. Findings from our 2014 Travel Trends Report show that today’s consumer increasingly expects brands to be “3D” – delivering truly localised and personalised experiences, along with the guarantee of quality and consistency which a global brand provides. To maintain guest loyalty in the future, hotels need to deliver global, local and personalised appeal for their guests. By the first quarter of 2015, we will launch our first Hotel Indigo in the region with Hotel Indigo Bangkok Wireless Road in Thailand. Hotel Indigo is the world’s first globally branded luxury boutique brand that reflects the local culture, history and character of its surrounding neighbourhood.

Key to our success and strategic growth is our people, who are at the heart of our company. Our people strategy is designed around attracting, retaining and developing the best talent in the industry; whilst engaging and energising our existing colleagues.

What is IHG’s vision and mission? Our objective has always been to create Great Hotels Guest Love; by making our brands the preferred choice for guests and hotel owners. What’s your take on Asia’s tourism market for the next 2 years? Asia ranks very highly as a tourism destination. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, South East Asia in particular will continue to see long term growth in the coming years. We have noticed a rise in travellers to our resorts in Thailand and Vietnam, which are home to our award-winning InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort and InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort. We are also seeing a trend in the

What is the group’s direction for the coming years in Asia? There has been a change in the thinking that has dominated the travel and hospitality industry over the last two decades. Hotel brands have traditionally concentrated on being 2D – how to be both global and local. Findings from our 2014 Travel Trends Report show that today’s consumer increasingly expects brands to be “3D”. Research from the report also shows that personalised brand experiences which resonate with local culture are particularly important for the fast-growing number of international travellers from emerging markets. This raises the stakes for global brands in ensuring that they are truly 3D. IHG is already addressing the growing consumer demand for 3D brands, through the

development of our two newest hotel brands: HUALUXE Hotels and Resorts, the first international hotel brand designed specifically for Chinese travellers; and EVEN Hotels, the first mainstream holistic wellness hotel brand. With domestic and regional travel on the rise, and the growth of low-cost carriers, we are also seeing an increasing number of value-conscious travellers. To cater to this group of travellers, we launched our Holiday Inn Express brand in South East Asia two years ago with the first hotel in Thailand: Holiday Inn Express Bangkok Siam. We then introduced the brand to Singapore and Indonesia in 2013 with Holiday Inn Express Singapore Orchard Road (July) and Holiday Inn Express Semarang Simpang Lima (November). This year we opened our second and largest Holiday Inn Express in Singapore: Holiday Inn Express Singapore Clarke Quay with 442 rooms, and are looking to open our third one: Holiday Inn Express Singapore Katong by 2016. Our presence in South East Asia continues to grow. This year alone we have opened seven hotels in the region, including our first hotel in Nha Trang, Vietnam earlier this year: InterContinental Nha Trang; and third Holiday Inn Express in Thailand: Holiday Inn Express Bangkok Sathorn. We recently also announced the signings of three new hotels in Singapore, including our second InterContinental: InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay; our third Holiday Inn Express: Holiday Inn Express Singapore Katong; and the city’s first Hotel Indigo: Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong. All three hotels will open by 2016. Please tell me more about IHG. IHG is one of the world’s largest hotel companies and a global leader in branded service with over 4,700 hotels in nearly 100 countries around the world. Since 2011, we have built our operations across the culturally diverse region of Asia, Middle East and Africa (AMEA) where we now have over 250 hotels and are looking to open more than 135 hotels over the next three to five years.

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Abid Butt CEO of Banyan Tree Hotels & resorts

The concept under the brand’s legend? In 1984, our founders purchased a vast expense of coastal land in Phuket, Thailand. Only to realise that the land was polluted by the previous tenant – a tin mine. With dedication and hard work, the acid- laden soil was cleansed with the planting of more than 7,000 trees. 10 years later, the land was transformed into the environmentally sensitive first Banyan Tree resort – Banyan Tree Phuket. Banyan Tree’s philosophy has always been to create beautiful memories for our guests. Training and development of our associates is fundamental to the success of our brand philosophy. Ensuring we deliver a truly memorable experience for every guest is our focus and what each associate focuses on every day. During Banyan Tree’s 20 years of operation, we are proud to have a distinct Banyan Tree spirit and passion across all our hotels, resorts and offices. The bonds created through associates working and training together across properties and countries permeates throughout our organization. All our associates live by our IDEALs (Innovation, Diversity, Empowerment, Accountability, Learning, Synergy) as everyone works together to create amazing memories for every guest, every day. What is the key success of the brand under your management? The Banyan Tree Group has 37 hotels and resorts, of which 23 are under the Banyan Tree brand. We are known worldwide for the Banyan Tree sanctuary, offering a place to rejuvenate mind, body and soul in awe-inspiring locations around the globe.Our success can be attributed to having a clear definition of our brand, with brand pillars and positioning that delivered at every consumer touch point. Understanding the consumer and the markets we operate in and the use of the best technology as a backbone and an enabler has also been critical to success.

What is the brand’s mission in the next step? Our mission for Banyan Tree is to be a truly global brand. We are looking to expand our distribution globally and be present in all continents across the world to be accessible to more people. We have an aggressive growth strategy during the next five years to propel the company’s portfolio forward via expansions in China, North Africa, Europe and the Americas. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? The travel and tourism industry outlook in Asia is strong. With the globe’s middle class growing (with Asia’s middle class forecast to grow from 500 million in 2014 to 1.75 billion by 2020) we are welcoming a new group of guests wishing to embrace the opportunity to travel as they experience a rise in living standards. Our new brand, Cassia – a hotel residences concept, launched this year targets the growing middle class. We will be launching a fourth brand in 2015. We are expanding our offering to travellers and owners by creating a collection of brands which will enable us to promote different experiences to various target groups.

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All our associates live by our IDEALs (Innovation, Diversity, Empowerment, Accountability, Learning, Synergy) as everyone works together to create amazing memories for every guest, every day. What direction of the new Asia do you foresee in the future? With the rise of the Asian middle class, we will see travel on an upward trend in the next few years as connectivity across the world expands. Coupled with the building of airports in new areas, interstate highways and budget travel, the appetite for travel and exploring new destinations has never been higher.

Pratarnporn Phornprapha Deputy Managing Director

The concept under the brand’s legend? We are a new boutique hotel where good memories are created and each customer will have great experiences through our unique gimmicks.The hotel combines industrial elements with the family history. You can find thoughtful touches of Thai accent throughout the hotel. The name Siam@Siam is derived from the family business, Siam Kolkarn, and the hotel location that is close to Siam. What is the key success of the brand under your management? In addition to services, we want to create an experience. Attention to even the smallest details and gimmicks was paid to present a memorable, people-oriented, setting and atmosphere. We bring together the creativity, innovation, and modern management. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? After the opening of Siam@Siam in Pattaya, our brand gained more recognition in Thailand and we are planning our third property. Our next mission is to establish a strong foundation in Southeast Asia under the name Siam@Siam. We also are jumping into franchise management with in 3 years. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? There is an increase in tourists from our neighbouring countries. Siam@Siam is quite well-known in Asia, especially among Singaporeans and Japanese. Of course the number of Chinese travelers is huge and still rising, but Indian travelers are also increasing fast. We train our staffs well on different culture. Whether you are a Chinese, Japanese, or Singaporean guest, you’ll be well taken care of. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? Aviation industry plays a big part in the development. Budget airlines allow mid-market travelers to travel around more, especially into recently opened countries, and the trend of easy travel is gaining momentum.

In addition to services, we want to create an experience. Attention to even the smallest details and gimmicks was paid to present a memorable, people-oriented, setting and atmosphere NOW Travel Asia 141 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Hua Deming Harry Hua General Manager, Greater China, Paxton Vacances Resorts & Hotels General Manager, Paxton Vacances Resort Qionghai Bay Xichang General Manager, Paxton Vacances Suite Qionghai Bay Xichang

The concept under the brand’s legend? I’m very glad and proud to share our brand. The word ‘Paxton’ is derived from Latin archaism, in which ‘Pax’ means ‘Harmony’, ‘ton’ means ‘Measurement’, and the word means E-House in old English, and Vacances means Vacation in French. Paxton Vacances Resorts & Hotels in China inherits European service essence, and also integrates the management culture of regional market. We have an international management team, who are dedicated to creating a working atmosphere of focusing on person’s ability, respecting creativity, focusing on details and progressing together in harmony. Happy staff under the pleasant environment will naturally provide thoughtful and meticulous services in return for financial gains. We will provide considerate services by your side. For all these and more, our vision is to be a leading International Hotel and Hospitality Management Group in which professionalism, service and commitment to excellence is the highest priority. What is the key success of the brand under your management? We strive to achieve the highest standard of excellence and create to our guest an incomparable experience, while ensuring financial returns to our owners. To achieve that goal, I mainly condense key success to ‘4P’ and ‘2F’. PARTNER, we promise to be the best partner with each other, our guests and also with our owners. PASSION, we are a Team of professionals, who are full of passion both in our work and personal lives. PLEASANTNESS, we permeate pleasant to our guests, from the moment of their arrival, an experience that will remain long after their departure. PERSONALITY, we acknowledge personality which is a remarkable asset for each of our associates. We encourage everybody to share knowledge, enriching their lives, and broaden their outlooks in their working and personal surroundings, utilizing them to better serve our guests. FLEXIBILITY, this is vital for us to always respect and understand the requirements of our guests. We must be able to adopt and act on changes, stay open-minded, and never lose the ability to be astounded. FAMILY, we are one family and we care for each other beyond our business relationships and organizational ties .We understand the importance of balancing hard work with a personal and healthy life style.

Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? Tourism is becoming one of the largest and fastest growing industries. Over these years, its growth has shown a consistent year to year increase. In my point of view, Asian tourism market is no longer only about sightseeing, there has been a shift from sightseeing to long-lasting tourism products based on leisure, which requires longer stays and greater spending. Besides, Asian tourism market excels in destination branding, in terms of promotion and marketing, Asia has maintained its traditional beauty in tourists’ eyes. One of the reasons is that destinations make enormous progress in the success of branding. Also, Asia is changing the scenario of world tourism. Namely, Asia’s great performance is producing changes in the scenario of tourism in the sense that no longer is tourism one-way from north to south. Asia is contributing to a more balanced and healthier tourism significantly to the world.

We strive to achieve the highest standard of excellence and create to our guest an incomparable experience, while ensuring financial returns to our owners.

What is the brand’s mission in the next step? Paxton Vacances entered into Chinese market since 2010 with four brands in operation, over 1500 guestrooms in charge in China, mainly located in tier one and tier two cities. There will be 1 to 2 new properties established each year in the future, over 8000 rooms in 2017 namely City Hotel, Resorts & Hotels, Theme Hotel and Apartment Hotel.

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What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? I guess tourism will build up the economy in new Asia in the future to a great extent. While we are all reasonably confident in the future of new Asia, we actually know that the Asian tourism, which is not mature as a whole, still faces challenges in the process of participation in the world tourism economy and plays its full potential. Meanwhile, the growing tourism demands have become the most steadiest supporting factor for tourism economy development. In that case, Asian tourism enterprises should continue the way of marketization to promote our business on the base of the expanding market shares. We should always have confidence in the prosperity of tourism markets and industry development, and coordinate actively with each other.

Sante Ahn General Manager of Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul

The concept under the brand’s legend? Banyan Tree provides shelter to weary travelers. Symbolizing the relief and comfort provided by nature, we adopted the name for our special group of hotels that stretch across the globe and offer rest and relaxation to the world-weary. Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts has grown into one of the world’s leading international operators in the hospitality and spa industry that manages more than 30 resorts and hotels, 70 spas, 90 retail galleries and 3championship golf courses around 30 countries. Thirty years ago, our founders purchased a vast expanse of coastal land in Phuket, Thailand punctuated by lagoons of the most intense cobalt blue. Only to discover that its beauty came not from Mother Nature, but the pollution by the previous tenant, a tin mine. Rather than walk away, they dedicated themselves to cleansing the acid-laden soil by planting more than 7,000 trees. In doing so, they transformed this ecological wasteland into the environmentally sensitive first Banyan Tree resort in 1994. Since those beginnings our passion and focus on the journey, discovery and the romance of travel remains at the core of our business today. Banyan Tree provides naturally-luxurious, ecological, culture-sensitive experiences for the discerning, responsible travelers. What is the key success of the brand under your management? We aim to provide unique experience to our valuable customers. Since I joined, we have been providing special programs with a completely unique experiences, for example, ‘Jang’, the outdoor market place, and themed indoor/outdoor dinner concerts. (Paul Potts Dinner Concert, Banyan Tree’s Nouvelle Vague Concert, Caribbean Gathering with Steel Drum Orchestra, Jazz in the City: For more informations, please refer to below link) http://www.banyantreeclub.com I believe that we can share Banyan Tree’s value with our guests through those various cultural programs and offer culture-sensitive experiences in Korea. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts has created a family of brands to cater to the needs of today’s travelers. Whether our guests are travelling for romance, a family holiday, business, visiting family or friends, or going on an adventure to discovering a far-flung destination, Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts has the perfect destination. Banyan Tree group offers distinctive product offerings that cater to different locations and potential for various destinations. Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul is the first urban resort of Banyan Tree Hotel & Resort. On the land of 70,000 square meters and located in Mt. NamSan at the center of Seoul, you can enjoy resting and private time away from daily life. We also have various programs to offer you unforgettable memories and will constantly provide unique experiences with special services that you can only experience at Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul.

Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts has grown into one of the world’s leading international operators in the hospitality and spa industry that manages more than 30 resorts and hotels, 70 spas, 90 retail galleries and 3championship golf courses around 30 countries.

Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? It was focused more on ‘Sightseeing’ when we say about tourism market in Asia, but it is changing now. ‘Experience’ will be the most important factor in tourism market. I am sure it will be the experiences based on local culture. For instance, visitors notice upon coming to Korea is that there are many things to experience and enjoy. It could be Korean Wave or something very unique contents of Korea. In hotel industry, developing special cultural programs is becoming essential for future. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? As I mentioned for answer for the previous question, developing new cultural contents containing sensitivity of Asia is very important. Take on uniquely Asian subjects, hotel business (tourism market) will be success.

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Harald Feurstein General Manager, Conrad bangkok

What are some of the special features Conrad Bangkok offers to it’s guests and where do your guests come from? We enjoy a diverse guest mix from many parts of the world. As a result, we have developed and implemented programs, specifically tailored to meet the demand of specific groups of guests. For instance our Huanying program, which addresses special needs for our Chinese guests. In addition to catering for guests of different cultures, we also cater to guests with different purposes. That is to say that the business traveler has different expectations to the leisure traveler. We continue to innovate new services to meet the ever evolving demands. This includes technology and our Conrad Concierge App, which is available for download and which allows our guests to tailor their stay to their own personal requirements even prior to arrival. As technology becomes ever more important and our guests become more and more tech savvy, we are working hard to remain at the forefront and to provide our guests with all they need at their fingertip. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? Asia is probably the most dynamic part of the world right now. A lot of Asian countries are growing rapidly. The growth is clearly shown in the travel activities, especially in China, Singapore, Japan, and Hong Kong. Although there are a lot of competitors in Bangkok, we believe there is enough business for everyone. But of course we always like to see ourselves as one of the dominant players. We are fully intent on keeping up our best effort and to making sure we get the bigger piece of the pie. AEC will also provide additional opportunity and add to the growth. It’ll continue to cement Asia as an important region.

The concept under Conrad Bangkok? Originally and typically most Conrad Hotels are perceived urban city center hotels. Yet, we also have resort hotels in our brand such as the Conrad Koh Samui here in Thailand. It’s about the overall style, branding and service delivery. What is the key success of the Conrad Bangkok under your management? Intuitive service – we are there when you need it, and not there when you don’t need it. We work at the forefront and we make sure we stay close to customers as well as our team members. I say “we” because operating a hotel is a team effort. There are 600 people working in the hotel and it requires everyone’s effort to make it work. In recent years, we see both guest and team member satisfaction increased. There’s a saying, “Happy staff, happy guests,” and that ultimately boils down to a successful business. Thanks to team effort, we have received several awards, including Best luxury city hotel and Best convention hotel, etc.

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We continue to try to innovate new services to meet different guest’s expectation. We also have our Conrad Concierge application for mobile devices which let’s you tailor your stay with us even before you arrive. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? As I mentioned before, Asia is the most dynamic part of the world. It’s growing tremendously and it has a huge population. There are lots of opportunities for the travel industry to grow further and do well.

Michael Hanratty General Manager, G Hotel, Penang.

To provide exceptional experiences … stylishly! The concept under the brand’s legend? A Luxe – Modern Hotel Brand in a lifestyle location offering customised experiences. What is the key success of the brand under your management? Always seeking for an opportunity; Empowering people; Remember to “remember”; Style in everything we do; Talent Centric What is the brand’s mission in the next step? To provide exceptional experiences … stylishly! Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? Over the next decade, Asia’s travel and tourism industry is set to grow by more than six per cent each year – the fastest expansion rate of any region in the world. Asia is preparing for a tourism boom with opportunities and challenges abound. It will definitely benefit us with our new G Hotel Kelawai opening in 1st of January 2015. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? The future would probably see more green and eco-lodgings; development of mega hotels (multipurpose facilities with casino, shops, theatre, theme park, etc.) Perhaps, intelligent hotels with advanced technology using the guest’s virtual fingerprint in order to perform all the operations (check-in, charges, check-out, etc.)

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Yves Mudry General Manager sofitel so bangkok

The concept under the brand’s legend? I had a great opportunity to take over the role of General Manager at Sofitel So Bangkok which is the flagship hotel of the Sofitel So label. This prestigious property has opened since 2012. Created by Sofitel as a label, Sofitel So personifies its designer hotels vision, the latest addresses, resolutely contemporary. Blending design and pleasure, style and soul, each Sofitel So address aims to express the essence of the destination. A concept that combines Sofitel art de vivre and personal style entrusted to an international name from the world of fashion. Sofitel So Bangkok is the city’s first truly urban design hotel, located in the prime diplomatic and business district on Sathorn Road, overlooking a stunning view of Lumpini Park. Created through a one-of-a-kind collaboration between an award-winning Thai architect and five leading local designers, the property draws inspiration from the Five Elements– Water, Earth, Wood, Metal, and Fire – unified through the creative brilliance of renowned French couturier Monsieur Christian Lacroix. What is the key success of the brand under your management? Service is a key to success. These days, hotels are highly competitive and the hardware becomes the main focus of the business. On the other hand, service which place an important role has been neglected. Here at Sofitel So Bangkok, we are always steps ahead of our guests’ expectations, not only by satisfying their needs but exceeding them. At the same time, by keeping track of our guests’ preferences and needs during their stay, help us in achieving our high guests’ satisfaction level. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? Together with Accor’s Luxury upscale brand, Sofitel So focuses to be a lifestyle hotel with a playful luxury concept. With the importance of the hotel’s destination located in key cities such as Bangkok and Singapore, more properties throughout Asia and Europe will be in our pipeline. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? Thailand has always been an important hub in Southeast Asia, being a key player amongst its neighboring countries. Over the next few years with Asean Economics Community (AEC) opening, Thailand will continue to develop its strong position within Asia. This country has demonstrated strong ability to recover from various events over a quick period of time in an efficient way and will continue to strive as an attractive destination for international tourists.

We are always steps ahead of our guests’ expectations, not only by satisfying their needs but exceeding them. At the same time, by keeping track of our guests’ preferences and needs during their stay, help us in achieving our high guests’ satisfaction level.

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What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? Asia is known for its hospitable service mind and with the tourism industry growing vastly in Asia, it’s no doubt that more and more hotel brands will be stepping its foot into this booming part of the world. Sofitel has recently celebrated its 50th Anniversary, it’s cleared that reputable company like Accor will continue its development in key cities in Asia.

David Xavier General Manager impiana hotels & resorts Thailand

The concept under the brand’s legend? The Impiana in Thailand has always been a contemporary boutique brand. It mixes upbeat modern trends with authentic local tastes. Our concept exudes a warm, rustic and yet simple elegant feel. A good night’s sleep on a comfortable bed is an emphasized priority, then comes practical and functional accessibility in the room, followed by a touch of indulgent pampering and last but not least the perfect food and wines to match. We strive to introduce new and excellent quality when it comes to guest room amenities. Our pillow types and linen sheets can take on some of the 5 star brands while our food and beverage concept is simple, offering quality ingredients and real meals. From farm to table concepts featuring some of the best chefs in the industry, we strive to ensure a culinary treat of unbeatable value and good quality. What is the key success of the brand under your management? The main key that stands out is definitely CHANGE. In an environment that is constantly evolving be it politically, socially or economically, one needs to stay abreast with changes and be sure to adapt to it lest we are left behind. I’m proud to embrace CHANGE. To make a difference for the needs of our hotel guests and make a “creative & bold” statement in the resort business community. I like to challenge my team of managers to take risks and execute ideas with confidence. To be trend setters and not just order takers. CHANGE is also important in looking after the wellbeing of the people under my charge at the hotel. I believe in improving and giving them opportunity for growth within the group. I seek out dedication and passion at work from the team and there’s satisfaction when you see them improve and know that somehow you contributed in making that CHANGE in them. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? We are a young brand in the region. And like all younglings, we have dreams (impian – the Malay word). We want to expand here in Thailand and perhaps venture beyond the Thai borders towards Cambodia for example. We are ready and definitely confident in taking this next step.

Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? Tourism growth rate in Asia has seen positive growth and this can only continue. It is by far the fastest in terms of expansion rate compared to any other region in the world. Even with political turmoil in the world, this has not deterred travellers from China and India (the two giant contributors). When major unforeseen events seems to put a halt to European travellers with their many travel warnings alerted, China and India carries on. Then there is the Russian market, it continues to grow and is still eager to travel despite being in the “sanctioned spotlight”. Thailand is a resilient holiday destination. She bounces back swiftly. She moves on and she is always hospitable and ever welcoming.

I’m proud to embrace CHANGE. To make a difference for the needs of our hotel guests and make a “creative & bold” statement in the resort business community. I like to challenge my team of managers to take risks and execute ideas with confidence.

What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? Asia has always been linked to words like exotic, mysterious, diverse, culture, exhilarating and even taboo to some extend. The new Asia will be no different. People will continue to be enchanted by what it has to offer in terms of being a tourism destination. In fact if at all it is heading towards a direction, it is moving towards a brighter horizon with unbelievable opportunities. Here in Asia (or the new Asia if you insist) is where the next big thing will be discovered, a new pop culture will emerge and it will be the new driving force in most industries not just tourism.

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Kyi Win CEO Asian wings airways

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The concept under the Brand’s Legend? The concept under the Brand’s Legend is to fullfill the Customers’ Satisfactions. What is the Key success of the Brand under your management? The Key success of the Brand under my management is keeping 100% Safety, i.e “ Zero Accident Airline”. What is the Brand’s Mission in the next step? To be the Choice of Airline in Myanmar for its warm and generous hospitality with competency.

Asia’s Tourism Market in the next 2 years in your own view? It would be Booming! The number of tourists would be come DOUBLE or MORE. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? Future Direction of the new Asia is developing tremendously in the Aviation Industry sector.

Cen Ling General Manager China Southern airlines Thailand

The concept under the brand’s legend? China Southern Airlines focuses heavily on services which we have received various awards, including the Best Service Airline. We have a comprehensive flight network, covering all major continents around the world. The airlines is buying the new Airbus A380 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner to expand our international routes. We are the only airlines to operate both Airbus and Boeing flagship aircrafts, and we now have 600 aircrafts in our fleet, which is the largest fleet in Asia and the 3rd largest fleet in the world.

Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? Chinese economy has been sky-rocketing in the past few years, resulting in a tremendous increase in Chinese travelers. And if the economy in Asian countries are growing every year, the travel industry will definitely boom. For Thailand, we would love to be investing in Thailand as soon as the political situation is stable because both countries have great relationship. More and more Chinese travelers are coming to Thailand, so we want to develop more direct flights to other provinces. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? The airlines industry is highly competitive. The airlines industry in North America has trumped the bus industry because it’s faster, safer, and more comfortable. The largest airlines industry is in the USA but the airlines from the Middle East are emerging quickly as they have the capital to buy advanced aircrafts and build luxury facilities. On the other hand, Asian airlines are more focused in services, and China Southern Airlines is highlighting its excellent service in this highly competitive business and ever-changing world.

the company is like a house with huge family and we manage our staffs like they are family members. Secondly, you must be willing to invest and the result will follow.

What is the key success of the brand under your management? There are 2 key principles for our success. Firstly, the company is like a house with huge family and we manage our staffs like they are family members. Secondly, you must be willing to invest and the result will follow.

What is the brand’s mission in the next step? Our mission is to build a strong business that customers are confident in its high standard of safety. This year we would have approximately 90 million passengers, and we are expecting the number to reach 100 million in 5 years. The airlines will keep on improving, with the aim to become Asia’s number 1 airlines.

Leslie Thng SilkAir Chief Executive

The concept under the brand’s legend? The airline was first started in February 1989 as a leisure carrier, Tradewinds the Airline, before evolving into SilkAir in 1992. In its early days, the airline catered to passengers holidaying in exotic destinations in the region, including Phuket and Tioman. As the carrier developed, regional business destinations such as Phnom Penh, Yangon and Kuala Lumpur were added. Today, SilkAir has evolved into a full service airline and has established its position as Singapore Airlines’ regional wing flying to Asia Pacific destinations within a five-hour radius from Singapore. In 2004, when the Singapore short haul market was suddenly inundated with three low cost carriers, many aviation experts predicted the demise of SilkAir. However, not only were they proven wrong, the airline has also achieved unbroken profitability for the past 12 years and today operates to 47 destinations in 12 countries and counting. Inducted into the TTG hall of fame in 2009, the airline has come a long way since its early days and its achievements have been recognised through the many awards it has won over the years to become Asia’s most awarded regional airline. The

full-service carrier has also won many awards for its warm cabin service. This year, the airline celebrated its Silver Jubilee alongside the arrival of the first of its 54 Boeing aircraft that was ordered in 2012. With the introduction of the new Boeing aircraft, SilkAir will continue to help travellers discover Asia’s newest frontiers, by expanding its networks, especially to unique destinations in our key markets. What is the key success of the brand under your management? Being part of the SIA group, SilkAir has constantly strived to establish greater synergy with our parent airline, Singapore Airlines. For example, both airlines are now more coordinated in terms of network planning functions, to ensure seamless connections for our passengers, as well as our revenue management functions. Apart from that, in February this year, we launched a new brand campaign, ‘ A Joy to Fly’ that looks to rekindle the joy of flying, shifting the focus on how Asia’s most awarded regional carrier creates journeys worth taking by offering customers a seamless and enjoyable travel experience at all times. Through this campaign we want to

illustrate how as a full service carrier, SilkAir provides comfort and convenience from check-in to touch down for those looking to explore Asia’s newest frontiers. The campaign redefines true value for the discerning traveller, emphasising and bringing to life the many benefits that SilkAir offers through a set of distinctive icons that feature across all the ads. The range of the benefits include a 30kg and 40kg baggage allowance for Economy and Business class respectively, inflight meals, KrisFlyer frequent flyer programme, through check-in service. We also constantly strive to improve the inflight experience of our passengers and in May this year, introduced our new wireless inflight entertainment system, SilkAir Studio. Passengers can stream blockbuster hits, short features as well as chart-topping music to their laptops and personal handheld devices and all these are offered on a complimentary basis to our passengers. 2014 also saw us receive the first of our Boeing 737-800NGs, where the new aircrafts come equipped with upgraded cabin interiors with more spacious overhead luggage compartments; rainbow LED lighting system, bright and welcoming cabin décor, in-seat power supply; and

advanced technology, which means enhanced passenger safety, reliability and accessibility. What’s the brand mission in the next step? In Singapore, we will continue to reinforce the value propositions that we offer to differentiate ourselves from our competition. In our other markets such Indonesia, China, India, Malaysia, Thailand, we are also working to cement our positioning as a full-service carrier and our status as the most awarded regional carrier in Asia. We see a significant potential for growth in these markets in the coming years. What is your vision for the travel industry in the next 2 years? The rapid expansion of capacity in Asia’s travel market over the past few years is a testament to the potential of the region. We believe that a strong demand for intra-Asia travel remains. There is also an increasing number of travellers looking for the reliability and comfort that a full-service carrier like SilkAir offers. With our new Boeing fleet and our growing network of destinations, we are confident that our offerings will be well-received by travellers.

There is also an increasing number of travellers looking for the reliability and comfort that a full-service carrier like SilkAir offers. With our new Boeing fleet and our growing network of destinations, we are confident that our offerings will be well-received by travellers. What direction of the new Asia which you forsee in the future? The economies in Asia will continue to have one of the highest growth rates and with developments such as the AEC and the ASEAN open skies, it will be an exciting time for the airline as we continue moving forward.

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Tassapon Bijleveld CEO, Thai AirAsia

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The concept under the brand’s legend? “Go Global, Act Local” is both the driving concept and credo of AirAsia, whether in our communications or our services. We are a low cost airline set on making travel easy and “for everyone”. Our services are accessible by all demographics while as a brand we are recognized as world class, as evidenced by our winning the Skytrax World’s Best Low Cost Airline award for 6 straight years (2009-2014). We continue to develop ourselves and to enrich our brand with the goal of making AirAsia every travelers’ first choice. What is the key success of the brand under your management? The most key success has been establishing the airline as low fare but high quality. While we remain a low cost carrier we have also maintained a high standard for security and service as well as an on-time record that is second to none. All of these attributes are apparent to our customers when they travel with us and are how we plan to build a sustainable brand. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? We have been able to convey to our customers that for the greatest flying value, they must fly with AirAsia. Our next step will be strengthening AirAsia itself, by having the airline reach even more people. We plan to connect non-capital destinations to other non-capital destinations in an affirmation that we are the airline that says “Everyone… Can Fly”.

We continue to develop ourselves and to enrich our brand with the goal of making AirAsia every travelers’ first choice. “Everyone… Can Fly”. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? The Asian market is the largest in the world with the greatest amount of foreign investment and no indications of a slowdown. With the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) and AEC+3 (including China, South Korea and Japan) just on the horizon, business here should become even more fluid with exchanges and competition taking place freely, necessitating greater travel. It is AirAsia’s duty to accommodate the region’s travel needs with reasonable fares and synchronous growth. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? Asia has always been a region of opportunity and growth, even despite its current limitations and disparities among its nations. The establishment of the AEC will foster an equality that leads to free competition and cooperation towards growth, creating a unified Asia that can strive for the successes already seen in the European Union. It is a goal we all must work together toward.

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The concept under the brand’s legend? The Korea Tourism Organization presented a new Korean tourism brand slogan, “Imagine your Korea” with emphasis on the “K” in “Korea” to symbolize a variety of resources that are offered in Korea such as K-Wave, K-Pop, K-Food and K-Style. We promote various charms of Korea in an effective and enthusiastic way. It reflects the improved global status of Korea through its beautiful natural environment, rich tradition, and history. It also portrays Korea as “a trendyand creative tourist destination that leads the global pop-culture.” “Imagine your Korea” encourages travelers to discovery the diverse aspects of Korea personal experiences.

BYUN CHOO SUK CEO of the Korea Tourism Organization

What is the key success of the brand under your management? Last year, Korea saw about 12 million foreign arrivals. Chinese travelers accounted for 35.5% of inbound foreign visitors to Korea, Japanese travelers accounted for 22.6%, and 41.9% came from the rest the world. In order to bring in more foreign tourists KTO opened more offices in Asia and the Middle East regions, including the recently added branch offices in Hanoi and Jakarta in 2011, and in Manila and Istanbul in 2012. Each region is approached with a different marketing strategy. For example, the Russian market focuses on medical tourism, the Middle East market is focused on Muslim tourism, and the European and American market focuses on hallyu (K-wave). What is the brand’s mission in the next step? The new tourism brand slogan embodies Korea’s new image and the factors necessary to promote our country as an attractive tourist destination to all future visitors. We can strengthen the image of Korea tourism as a creative country filled with the latest trends and sophisticated culture, and thereby contributing to the opening of an era that welcomes 20 million foreign tourists.

We can strengthen the image of Korea tourism as a creative country filled with the latest trends and sophisticated culture, and thereby contributing to the opening of an era that welcomes 20 million foreign tourists.

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Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? Today, Korea welcomes over 10 million tourists annually and is on its way to becoming an international tourism destination. Korea tourism has not only grown in number, but also in quality. Tourists’ purposes and goals in visiting have fundamentally changed, and Korea has emerged as a medical tourism destination. A growing number of foreigners are visiting Korea to receive advanced healthcare and medical services. Because they spend more money than typical tourists, Korea pays much attention to this segment of foreign visitors. The number of medical tourists reached nearly 210,000 in 2013. The figure has been increasing by over 50 percent annually since 2009

Thawatchai Arunyik Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand

The concept under the brand’s legend? The Thailand Tourism Authority[TAT] takes the beauty of Thailand to the world stage and shows the world what Thailand has to offer. Basically we support tourism in Thailand and we are proud to present Thailand internationally and domestically. In the past, TAT was the only organisation that planned, developed, and promoted Thailand’s tourism industry, and we have been very successful.

In order to keep promoting beautiful Thai culture, a tremendous amount of team effort and creativity is required in planning our next move and building Thailand’s a stronger network around the world.

What is the key success of the brand under your management? The corporate culture we have is very strong. We respect, follow, pass on the knowledge, and manage our organisation as one big family for the full benefit of the organisation. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? Within this fast-changing world, it’s important for us to be flexible. In order to keep promoting beautiful Thai culture, a tremendous amount of team effort and creativity is required in planning our next move and building Thailand’s a stronger network around the world. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? After the AEC is opened, there will be a better connection between the ASEAN countries and this will allow us to support one another. We can learn the strength of other countries and vice versa, and ASEAN will soon become the world’s favourite destination. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? Asia would be the new economic giant because of the booming economy and the enormous number of population. The travel industry is growing rapidly, and with the advancement in technology, communication, and safe and faster transportation, it’ll grow even bigger and faster.

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Errol Cooke VP for Global Hotels, Agoda.com

The concept under the brand’s legend? Our tagline “Smarter Accommodation Booking” was conceptualized as equally pro-customer as it is pro-partners. Agoda. com was created as a global site that would have the scale to deliver smarter deals for all kinds of customers – whether those who book in advance or at the last minute. As that is such an attractive opportunity to partners, we’ve been successfully fostering a commitment to provide the most competitive accommodation rates to a wide variety of customers. What is the key success of the brand under your management? Our direct relationships with hotels and other partners. Under my leadership, Agoda.com’s accommodation management system has improved to provide hotels the autonomy to control their rates and availability, or create bespoke promotions in order to accomplish specific marketing goals during certain periods. For example, a hotel in Thailand is able to offer more enticing deals and adjust availability during the holiday season in Malaysia to anticipate the increase of Malaysian travellers during that period. All these updates can be done in real time. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? Continue to be a leading player by equipping our partners with better tools, while providing our customers with the best prices available. The travel and tourism market has always been one that evolves and changes with new technology and new customer demands, and contemporary challenges are no different. It’s the same in many industries – those that don’t adapt will be left behind.

Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? It’s a giant marketplace with a massive amount of entrepreneurs as well as huge established companies with deep pockets. Technology is driving change, as are increasingly socially-minded customers. I think you can expect lots of change. Some big names will fail, new names will emerge. Asia’s tourism market will remain a highly competitive playing field.

Our tagline “Smarter Accommodation Booking” was conceptualized as equally pro-customer as it is pro-partners.

Emma Sherrard Matthew Quintessentially Lifestyle, Chief Executive Officer

The concept under the brand’s legend? Quintessentially Lifestyle began in 2000 when Founders Ben Elliot, Aaron Simpson and Paul Drummond came together to create a lifestyle management service offering that simply didn’t exist. They combined expertise from their backgrounds in the movie and night-life industry, as well as experience of working alongside A-list stars – this together with an entrepreneurial spirit and their high-flying networks helped them to recognise a gap in the market and they capitalised on it! Fourteen years ago Quintessentially Lifestyle was a London-based concierge service, booking restaurant tables, accessing private clubs and hot-spots for high-net-worth individuals; today it is an award-winning, truly global lifestyle management service with offices around the world and more than 1,500 staff employed. What is the key success of the brand under your management? When I joined Quintessentially Lifestyle in 2005 my main objectives were to grow the brand’s global network of Partner offices but I also wanted to ensure that our reputation for, and provision of service excellence was maintained at the highest standard. Over the past 9 years I have overseen the set-up of new markets such as Mongolia, Indonesia, Qatar, Sri Lanka and the Czech Republic and brought these offices from a concept to a reality – helping to grow our network of offices from 52 to 63. Not only is the group growing rapidly, it is also becoming increasingly integrated and with increased efficiencies, due to our unique CRM technology. This platform enables us to securely and privately store detailed, highly personalised information regarding our Members, enabling us to deliver truly tailored services to them around the world. I believe this has led to our high retention rate which now sits at over 80% - which is key for us both for the satisfaction of

our Members and for the success of our business. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? Quintessentially Lifestyle’s Mission is to go above and beyond our Member’s and corporate client’s expectations - aiming to deliver an incredible level of personalised service all around the world and to always to go that extra mile. I feel these beliefs speak for the rest of the Group’s personality and vision also, not just the core of the business under Lifestyle Management. We’re committed to the notion that service excellence and quality matter, working hard to bring our Members and clients only the very best, whatever sector of the business we are placing focus on. Office launches in interesting and growing markets and the expansion of our other companies under the Group umbrella in areas such as Communications, Travel, Education

and Real Estate are key, along with our goal to retain our title as the industry leader via the use of our unique technologies that constantly improve how we deliver our service. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? The Asia Pacific region is one of the fastest growing tourism regions in the world, with tourism as one of the most important sectors in a large number of Asian countries. Increases in economic growth, disposable income and leisure time, political stability, and aggressive tourism campaigns, among other factors, have fuelled the growth of tourism significantly. Tourism figures in Asia will continue to rise with Hong Kong set to welcome over 26 million visitors by the end of 2014. The number of Chinese travellers will also continue to grow with more and more travellers seeking exotic destinations

Quintessentially Lifestyle’s Mission is to go above and beyond our Member’s and corporate client’s expectations - aiming to deliver an incredible level of personalised service all around the world and to always to go that extra mile further afield. With the growing number of Chinese billionaires, luxury travel trends are on the rise with more and more seeking bespoke and individualised luxury holidays – for example the private jet market in Asia/ China has seen recent growth and is likely to continue to grow due to demand for private travel, destinations off the beaten path and everything being experiential. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? We believe we will see the Asian market buying up more and more property oversees, as they are now, into the future – this is generally in order for them to have a foothold in other

markets, to travel and to support children going to school overseas increasingly to broaden their education experience and opportunities. We are seeing these trends not only in the private sector but also throughout tourism and business – a great example is the recent purchase of the Waldorf Astoria by the Beijing-based Anbang Insurance Group. At the end of the day what is key for us is that we know our Members and their behaviour trends – through this knowledge we can help to support and even pre-empt these needs and trends - and that makes us very powerful.

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The concept under the brand’s legend? Ocean Park benefits from a strong brand identity as Hong Kong people’s park and we strive to stay culturally relevant to the markets we serve to create a sense of belonging for our guests. Since we have been in operation since 1977, people who came to the park as children are now able to bring their children. This generational linkage is very powerful in a community and creates a bond with the local market that is as important as our brand. Every year, we organize the seasonal “Big 5” events to encourage guests to come back time and again, to celebrate their favorite festivals such as Chinese New Year, Easter, Summer, Halloween and Christmas at Ocean Park. Also unique to Ocean Park is our commitment towards entertainment, education and conservation. We strongly believe in the impact of actually seeing and connecting with an animal in moving our guests to change behaviours that could help conserve those precious animals. Through our animal exhibits, the interpretive displays, educational narrations, and the large offering of animal programs for students and the public, we strive to be an active advocate for the conservation of animals and their natural habitats. We also participate in animal conservation by donating a portion of admission revenue, proceeds from panda merchandise sales and guest programme fees, as well as the entirety of admission revenue from our annual Conservation Day in January to the Ocean Park Conservation Foundation, Hong Kong. In the 2013/14 fiscal year, the Foundation received HK$13.1 million

What is the key success of the brand under your management? I am blessed with a driven staff and a farsighted management team, working side by side to overcome many challenges along path of our transformation into an iconic international travel destination, capped by our winning the highest global industry recognition. One of the key successes we have achieved together is our winning of the highly coveted and prestigious Applause Award in 2012, presented by Liseberg Amusement Park. Recognised by the attractions industry worldwide, the award is presented at the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Attractions Expo every other year in honour of a theme park for its excellence in management, operations, and creativity. Ocean Park is the first theme park in Asia to win this international award since its inception in 1980. I am also very glad to have witnessed the completion of our 6-year, 8-phase Master Redevelopment Plan (MRP) in 2012, achieving our vision for a world-class theme park experience integrating immersive animal presentations from diverse ecologies and fun rides for all ages, which creates a truly differential blend of cerebral and visceral experiences in one destination. The amount of animal and ride attractions, was more than Chief Executive of Ocean Park Hong Kong doubled from 35 to over 80 as one of the objectives of the redevelopment of the Park. New attractions opened under the MRP include, the Marine Mammal guests within the new Asia, as their destination resort beyond the region Breeding and Research Center, the experiences with theme parks to the entire world. This will also help Veterinary Center, Amazing Asian increase, and their expectations for Hong Kong meet the demand of rising Animals, Ocean Express, Sea Life the level of service and quality of tourist arrivals – projected at Carousel, Aqua City, the Rainforest, attractions have grown substantially double-digit annual increases over the Thrill Mountain and Polar Adventure. over the years. This requires Ocean next decade – and bolter the city’s Park to be especially cognizant and competitiveness against other What is the brand’s aware of the competitive landscape to emerging regional destinations. mission in the next step? ensure we are complementing the We will constantly renovate while offerings with differential products, Asia’s tourism market in while upholding our safety, service the next 2 years in your and show quality standards. We will own view? continue to provide our guests with a We expect Asia’s tourism market to unique, memorable experience that continue growing in the coming combines entertainment, years, as the economies in Asia are conservation and education. Ocean all performing well and all markets Park is not only about having fun, but are reporting increases in tourism also a place where guests can learn arrivals. All of these indicators about different animal species, as well translate into healthy and robust as their biology and habitats in the demand for tourist offerings staying loyal to our strengths and wild. This will help convey important including theme parks - according to values – in other words, “keep the messages of conservation to the data from U.S. consulting firm best and improve the rest”. To public and encourage them to AECOM, aggregate attendance at the complement our award-winning channel their knowledge into actions top 20 Asian theme/ amusement combination of animal presentations of conservation. We also seek to parks ticked up 7.5% in 2013 to 117 and entertaining rides, a significant develop the 5 seasonal events million. We expect to see more theme and contemporary water park, as well (Summer Splash, Halloween Bash, parks being developed across Asia as the Ocean Hotel, the Park’s first Christmas Sensation, Chinese New and existing theme parks carrying out hotel, are scheduled to open in 2017. Year celebrations and Animal Month expansion plans to build and maintain These new developments, which in High Definition) to be bigger, grandtheir competitiveness. embody Ocean Park’s values and er and more entertaining each and world-class standards, will further every year, in order to encourage What direction of the new transform the Park into a premier guests to celebrate special seasonal Asia which you foresee in international resort destination. Such offerings at Ocean Park with their the future? a unique offering will enable us to family and friends, and give them new There is an ever-expanding middle extend the duration of guest visitation reasons to come back multiple times class with discretionary time and to multiple days, thereby elevating the every year. money, as well as a growing appeal of Ocean Park as a awareness and sophistication for

We will constantly renovate while staying loyal to our strengths and values – in other words, “keep the best and improve the rest” from Ocean Park and supported 44 wildlife conservation and scientific projects in 12 countries, involving 30 species. Our positioning has proven highly successfully in attracting both local and overseas guests of all ages to the Park - TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel website, has recently announced Ocean Park as one of the winners of the Traveller’s Choice Awards for Amusement Parks and Water Parks around the globe, ranking 2nd in Asia and 15th in the world, and is the only theme park in Hong Kong to be placed within the top 25 globally.

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Tom Merhmann

Sean SL Choo General Manager, Sunway Lagoon

The concept under the brand’s legend? At Sunway Lagoon, we position ourselves as Asia’s one-stop fun destination which appeals to all ages – having numerous rides and attractions within the vicinity. Sunway Lagoon is truly one of a kind covering 88 acres with over 80 rides and attractions spread across its 5 parks - Water Park, Amusement Park, Extreme Park, Wildlife Park and Scream Park. True to its ‘Asia’s Best Attraction’ fame, the multi-park is also home to various world-class attractions including the World’s First Waterplexx 5D and also the World’s Largest Water Ride - Vuvuzela, its latest attraction to date. Besides being a theme park, Sunway Lagoon is also a perfect venue for big company functions, a romantic & unique wedding venue and a world class amphitheatre. We want visitors to feel comfortable in Sunway Lagoon, where they are allowed to enjoy every themed park with their friends and families regardless of their age, while recreating great moments together. What is the key success of the brand under your management? Being 22 years old, Sunway Lagoon is a longstanding brand that is well-known to millions of visitors from all over the world and has established a strong identity within the industry. We believe that having to build an integrated theme park is one of the key contributing factors to our success. Sunway Lagoon is more than a theme park. Our unique location within the heart of the city has allowed us to further expand our attractions - hosting major international events and concerts every year such as MTV World Stage – attracting international artists such as WonderGirls from Korea, Katy Perry from USA, and also Thaitanium from Thailand and Flow Tour Asia 2014! In fact, we will also be hosting the upcoming LumiAir – A Cirque Extraordinaire, which is a world-class cirque-style extravaganza featuring a strong cast of 40 international cirque performers all set to wow audiences with breath-taking acrobatic performances, brilliant costumes, bright colours, and a stunning stage set. With such extensive attractions in Sunway Lagoon, we believe our commitment in continuously

improving existing infrastructures is instrumental in ensuring the brand’s success. Sunway Lagoon was the winner of ‘Asia’s Best Attraction’ by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) from 2007-2010 and also the winner of the inaugural ‘Asia’s Best Waterpark 2011’ by IAAPA. In addition to that, Sunway Lagoon also was the winner of ‘Best Man-Made Tourist Attraction 2005/2006’ awarded by Tourism Malaysia.

Sunway Lagoon has already established itself as Asia’s Best Attraction and is definitely on par with other international theme park brands

What is the brand’s mission in the next step? Sunway Lagoon has already established itself as Asia’s Best Attraction and is definitely on par with other international theme park brands. Hence, at Sunway Lagoon, we believe that it is crucial to implement upgrades within the theme park every now and then, to attract local as well as international visitors to keep visiting Sunway Lagoon for various reasons. We believe our collaborations with international brands such as The Sudden Impact! Entertainment and Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) will definitely attract more attention from visitors, which will also give a positive boost to the tourism industry. One of the more exciting programmes thatwe look forward to includes the partnership that Sunway Lagoon has with Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) Asia, which will see the first-of-its-kind Nickelodeon-branded attraction in Asia developed within the theme park itself early next year. Sunway Lagoon has also been working closely with The Sudden Impact! Entertainment Company for almost a decade now and have been committed to establishing its very own Lynton V. Harris’ Scream Park at Sunway Lagoon, making it the most prominent as well as successful scare attraction in Malaysia. Sunway Lagoon’s latest attraction, which is in the midst of development, is Nickelodeon’s Lost Lagoon. This attraction which will take centre stage within a new 10-acre park at Sunway Lagoon is suitable for families and visitors of all ages. With a total investment value exceeding RM100 million, Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon will be the first

Nickelodeon-themed attraction to be launched in Asia and is expected to open by March 2015. Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon is set amidst lush forest greenery and is built around trees with an adventure exploration feel. It will be a “Lost World” that is set within a “jungle”, a fabled “Lost Civilization” from a long time ago which has been “lost” to the public since 1997. It will be a very unique, one of a kind experience like no other out there in the market. Visitors can expect immersive attractions like an Oasis Lagoon Splash Pad and climbing structure, an interactive water play area using reactive technology, daily slime events, a variety of other water slide attractions, retail shops, and food service establishments themed with Nickelodeon’s hit properties, including SpongebobSquarePants, Dora the Explorer and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? We believe that Asia’s tourism market will continue spurring, considering the various theme parks that will be introduced in these next two years. In fact, the potential for growth is huge, as theme parks have begun diversifying its businesses, with new parks catering to various age groups. Asia is seen as an exotic destination in the tourism market due to its cultural diversity, its strong history and also the beautiful natural surroundings. The world is becoming smaller with the emergence of

internet (social media, flight connectivity and also telecommunication). It is the globalization effect. People are better informed on Asian destinations thus creating more desire to explore the exotic parts of Asia. The availability of budget airlines such as Air Asia and the spurring of affordable accommodation options in the ASEAN region will definitely continue to encourage more regional travel. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? It is without a doubt that Asia is attracting many visitors from all over the world, especially with the introduction of new theme parks and tourism spots in the continent. Malaysia itself is already a great destination for tourists, and the country attracts a large number of visitors annually. There will be more competition within the tourism industry, which will see more improvement as well as upgrades performed within the theme parks and tourism spots. Nonetheless, it will definitely benefit the industry economically, especially through an investment growth in the country. New Asia will soon be a significant world economic power region due to a bigger middle income group and this will encourage more travelling. New Asia is a combination of both traditional and modern landscape. Most Asian cities has developed through urbanization & country development and are now equipped with world class architecture. The way of life in Asia has improved over the years. This continuous evolution will make Asia an even more attractive holiday destination to the world.

Chadatip Chutrakul CEO of Siam Piwat

The concept under the brand’s legend? Our vision is being the ‘Icon of Innovation’ in retail property development creating distinctive world-class projects that provide visitors unparalleled experiences. Siam Piwat Co., Ltd., is the owner and operator of prestige retail developments such as Siam Paragon and Siam Center, as well as the joint venture partner of ICONSIAM, the US$1.54 billion Bangkok riverside, landmark development project to be completed in 2017. We have a long heritage of pioneering new concepts that amaze consumers, and which are also always commercially very successful and bring positive recognition for Thailand. Siam Piwat is the first company in Thailand to create the concept of an international standard shopping mall with the opening of Siam Center, forty years ago. Siam Piwat is also the first company to create a five-star hotel in Thailand with the building of the Siam InterContinental Hotel. What is the key success of the brand under your management? We have an honorable Board of Directors and highly professional and experienced Executives. Our strong performance as innovators and an operation that is highly successful commercially is based on our founding principles to always innovate and anticipate future trends. Among our recent initiatives is the total renovation of Siam Center to solidify its position as Thailand’s foremost centre for fast-forward fashion and creative experiences (www.siamcenter.co.th).

“Siam Piwat’s vision is being the “Icon of Innovation” in retail property development creating distinctive world-class projects that provide visitors unparalleled experiences.” The project made Siam Center one of the biggest talk-of-town destinations last year and Siam Center continues to be presented with global awards for its innovativeness and appeal to visitors. Our new concept made Siam Center push a shopping centre’s boundaries and become a place where great new ideas are presented, where art, fashion, technology, lifestyle and entertainment converge to create the unexpected and an inspiring experience for every visitor at every visit. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? We aim to firmly lock our position as a thought-leader in retail development and as a provider of inspirational experiences. The way we will do that is to: • We will focus on constantly creating new and unique experiences. Consumers

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are now globally connected and are instantly aware of new world trends with far higher expectations. • We are also continuing to work even more closely with tenants to offer new ideas and ways of working that can help support their greater success as well as provide unparalleled experiences for visitors. We will challenge our tenants to create new designs, new products, and new products that are unique to the property. • In addition, Siam Piwat will invest in new retail formats and concepts as well as new brands that are not yet in Thailand, including specialty stores to bring excitement to retail sector as well as offer different experiences for Thai society. • Siam Piwat will also invest in new businesses with world-class partners in the areas of entertainment, art and culture, as well as in retailing.

Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? The Asia tourism market will continue to register very strong growth, and it will become even more competitive for product and service providers. The winners will be those who can provide the traveler “authenticity” and “uniqueness” in their products and services. In South East Asia, with rising middle class income, we can expect to see increasing traveler sophistication and fragmentation. They will look for experiences that are not only new, but also are more niche in terms of catering to their specific needs. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? Asia is going to be driving global growth for the foreseeable future. The remarkable growth and change we

are seeing will continue, stimulated further by the many initiatives that aim to broaden and deepen the integration of the entire Asia region, such as the RCEP and the TPP. The ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) is already a reality and will come into effect at the end of next year, creating a common market of over 60 million people that will benefit all AEC members and all of Asia, too. Tourism is a certain winner in the AEC as people are allowed to move around freely in the community for both tourism and business purposes. In anticipation of these changes, the private sector is moving quickly and gearing up facilities and infrastructure to accommodate the expected increase in travelers. The AEC will also stimulate each country to develop its unique selling point to be able to stand out in an integrated community.

Kriengsak Tantiphipop CEO of The Emporium Group Co., Ltd. Board of Directors, Siam Paragon

The concept under the brand’s legend After successfully establishing The Emporium and Siam Paragon as leading world-class retail and entertainment centres, we are now developing new ‘The Extraordinary Life’ shopping complexes that combine a completely renovated The Emporium with two new ground-breaking retail and lifestyle centres – The EmQuartier and The Emsphere. The new Emporium will become the institutional luxury mall for the discerning shopper, while the EmQuartier will be more cutting edge. The Emsphere is expected to represent a never before seen experience. We expect these projects to become both world-class commercial centres and tourist destinations. What is the key success brand differentiator for these projects? We will strive to turn a new page of Thai retail history. “The Em District” will serve as an iconic area of retail, business, office, residential and entertainment, supported by a 50 billion baht investment from The Mall Group, investors, hotel entrepreneurs, tenants, an entertainment centre, leading brands, and business partners. The management vision is based first on a great location. Second, we envisage a wide and comprehensive mix of established and successful tenant brands. Third, a variety of lifestyles represented by an exceptional mix of leading brands across a wide range of industries, varieties and specialties. Fourth, there is the appeal of outstanding architectural design, and fifth, a continuous interactive marketing integration designed to respond to every whim of our customers. What is the next anticipated step? We expect to shortly see these groundbreaking retail initiatives represent a major contribution to the country’s image and economic prosperity. What is your view of the Asia tourism market in the next two years? In 2015, Thailand’s participation in the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) will herald a major change in the country’s position as a leading regional shopping hub and top tourist destination. There are 10 ASEAN member countries, plus six countries including China, South Korea, Japan, Australia, India and New Zealand, totaling 5,000

The new Emporium will become the institutional luxury mall for the discerning shopper, while the EmQuartier will be more cutting edge. million in population. We expect to see an increasing number of inbound tourists, perhaps up to 40 million people within the next two to five years. In preparation of the expected increase in tourism triggered by the AEC, The Emporium Group is launching the EM District project that comprises The Emporium, The EmQuartier and The Emsphere. What direction do you believe lies ahead for Asia? Obviously, Asia is the emerging market for many industries. Recent research has shown

that the luxury market in China has enjoyed a 7% growth while South East Asia experienced 20 percent growth driven by a wave of new store openings, and increasing strength and relevance of second-tier markets. The research also indicates that the rise of the middle class in emerging countries is polarizing the competitive arena, creating a “new baby boom sized generation” for luxury brands to target. The research also shows that tourists are gradually changing their consumption habits, seeking out new destinations (e.g., Dubai, South East Asia, Australia) and showing more savvy in the items they purchase. For Thailand, I believe that the destination cities such as Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Hua Hin, and Chiang Mai will become shopping and tourist hubs of South East Asia.

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Danai Derojanawong President, better way (Thailand)

The concept under the brand’s legend? Better Way (Thailand) Co. Ltd. has always aim to be an international brand with high manufacturing standard under strict FDA regulations. It grew from retail to wholesale, and oversea distributors are importing our products. Our products used to be selling at the border of Myanmar only, but now distributors in Myanmar are directly selling to consumers. Iran has been importing 2-3 SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) and they are asking to be the sole distributor in the Middle East. So our business model is quite flexible. What is the key success of the brand under your management? Brand recognition is the key. We try to make Mistine the top brand in consumer’s mind and it’s a very delicate process. We look up to the European brands because they are leaders in the business. Mistine is the leading modern cosmetic brand in Asia, especially in AEC. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? We are trying to increase brand recognition. We have a media billboard and customized products that better answered to the local customer’s need. During the past 2 years, we also created cosmetic collections and specific model in specific country.

We try to make Mistine the top brand in consumer’s mind and it’s a very delicate process. We look up to the European brands because they are leaders in the business. Mistine is the leading modern cosmetic brand in Asia, especially in AEC.

Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? Compared to other cosmetic products in the region, Thai products is better in term of standard. However, the challenge lies in the sales distribution channel and tariffs in some countries. Thai businesses must prepare well for AEC and look for the best way to do business. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? Products development and localization to each country is the direction of the business. Mistine has dedicated domestic and regional R&D teams for customizing cosmetic products to suit consumers in different countries. By going regional, we need to thoroughly understand the structure of target customer and cost in order to succeed.

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Pawin Pettrakul Pr and Production Manager The alcazar Cabaret

The concept under the brand’s legend? In 1981, my dad started the idea of a full production show performed by ladyboys, men, and women show. Back then the show was a mixed gender. The show gradually transformed itself to the audience that want to come and see what transgender is, because it was kind of a taboo back in the day. Our product had to adapt to the market, and we gradually filtered out the male and female performers. While the word “cabaret” might refers to an entertainment venue like Moulin Rouge in the West, it is a different category of show in Thailand. Thai cabaret is where ladyboys perform lip sync and this differentiation is why we are here for 34 years. What is the key success of the brand under your management? I’ve been managing Alcaza for 8 years. It took quite some time to prove my value to the business because I was a new generation entering in an old, well-established, business. There were a lot of arguments because of the generation gap, but I proved myself with the result – the number goes up, staffs are happier, and the brand image has improved. Last year (2013) we ranked third “Most Memorable Place in Thailand” by Tourism Authority of Thailand among Thailand’s most famous nature attractions. The award was voted by over 300,000 travelers and we are very proud of it. Our product is very unique. It’s nearly impossible to copy. Guests also get value for their money. They come to enjoy the show and leave with smiles and happiness as they would at a $200 Las Vegas show. We may adjust the show to suit the audience’s demographic so they can relate to the show better. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? Alcazar is firmly associated to Pattaya. I want to associate Alcazar with Thailand, then South East Asia, and Asia, making it an international brand. We have a plan to go on TAT roadshows in Europe, Japan, etc, and we’ll look at the market we want to go into. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? Thailand will be in the center stage. Some of the best things about Thailand are luxury, value for money, and service. I have traveled almost everywhere in Asia and I personally think Thailand has the best service. Tourism industry will grow tremendously in the next couple of years. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? With the increase in income and purchasing power in Asia, the main target customer has shifted from European to Chinese and Indian. Indian travelers also aren’t very sensitive about political issues in Thailand whereas Europeans would cancel the trip as soon as something is up. AEC will also bring more ASEAN travelers in, and we already are training our staff on different languages, from English, Malay, to Chinese.

Last year (2013) we ranked third “Most Memorable Place in Thailand” by Tourism Authority of Thailand among Thailand’s most famous nature attractions. NOW Travel Asia 163 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Alisa Phanthusak Assistant Managing Director tiffany show

The concept under the brand’s legend? The name Tiffany represents the glamour and beauty of the brand. The brand has been established for around 40 years and it’s now run by the second generation of executives. We are the first to organize the unique show, which took a long time for people to accept it and we need to make the story interesting. Today we try to make the show more interesting by integrating different cultures into it. This requires tremendous amount of thinking process as we want to make it grand and international. It was quite difficult in the beginning, but as an investor with strong faith in the product, we believed the show will boost Pattaya tourism industry, and it is now a must-see! What is the key success of the brand under your management? Thinking out of the box, new innovation, and constant product development are the keys to fulfilling customer’s desire. We don’t stay idle and we always look for what customers want. The success of Tiffany’s Show is from a combination of creative production team and strong teamwork. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? We are continuously developing every part of Tiffany from the stage to backstage. Tiffany is the pioneer of Thai cabaret as we are the first, but the question is ‘how can we stay in the lead?’ We always look for more opportunity. We have expanded our stage by organizing Miss Tiffany’s Universe and Miss International Queen in order to make Tiffany’s Show a predominant platform for transgender and strengthen our brand. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? Asia is looking brighter than other regions because the economy is improving and people’s income is rising quickly, especially in China. We are known widely throughout Asia because, in addition to our Pattaya show, we also organize events in other countries to promote Tiffany’s Show. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? Our short plan is to organize more international shows because these international events give our brand a better international recognition. We get to promote our brand and receive feedback from people in each different country as we are always trying to improve our brand image. In a long run, we want to have another branch. It’s the dream project and it’ll be different from what we have here.

Thinking out of the box, new innovation, and constant product development are the keys to fulfilling customer’s desire. We don’t stay idle and we always look for what customers want. The success of TIFFANY’S SHOW is from a combination of creative production team and strong teamwork. 164 NOW Travel Asia NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

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Suriyon Sriorathaikul Managing Director, the Beauty Gems Group

The concept under the brand’s legend? Beauty Gems is a high-end brand with a strong focus on export market. However, we do sell quality finished product domestically as well. While Beauty Gems targets high-end market, we also have 30 Beauty Diamond outlets in shopping malls around Thailand which target a more mass domestic market.

There are still a lot to improve. We try to maintain our growth and find the best solution to any problem. Keep an open mind on new technology and new generation of employees

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What is the key success of the brand under your management? There are still a lot to improve. We try to maintain our growth and find the best solution to any problem. Keep an open mind on new technology and new generation of employees. If you look at the big picture, we grow together with the economy and we stumble when the country has a problem. That’s why we need to have better law on jewelry and other society-related laws, such as woman right, in order for the whole country to move forward together.

What is the brand’s mission in the next step? We try to push Thailand to be the role model for jewel industry. The country can become the “Land of Jewel” and be the place where everyone thinks of when they think about jewel. This will bring in more money into the country, but before we can get there, we need government support and collaboration.

MICHELLE ONG Founder & designer, Carnet jewelly

The concept under the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legend? When I design I draw inspiration from all beautiful things in the nature and in my environment. I incorporate many of these elements in my fine jewelry, the perfect combination of precious stones, remarkable craftsmanship and memorable design. My jewelry is the result of pure inspiration and an intuitive facility with gems that is unmatched. I think the perfect jewel should enhance and reflect the beauty of wearer, and should be chosen accordingly. What is the key success of the brand under your management? It is the combination of choices of stones, materials and design to create a synergy of presentation. Each creation is unique and very inspirational, so that it has made the name carnet the success as it is as today.

My jewelry is the result of pure inspiration and an intuitive facility with gems that is unmatched. I think the perfect jewel should enhance and reflect the beauty of wearer, and should be chosen accordingly. NOW Travel Asia 167 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Taha Bouqdib Co-Founder, President and CEO of TWG Tea

The concept under the brand’s legend? TWG Tea was established in 2007 with the aim of creating one of the finest luxury tea brands in the world. A Singaporean company, we wanted the branding to pay tribute to the year 1837 when the island became a trading post for teas, spices and fine epicurean products. TWG Tea, which stands for The Wellness Group, was founded as a luxury concept that incorporates unique and original retail outlets, exquisite tea rooms and an international distribution network to professionals. We are deeply committed to offering teas directly from source gardens (our collection is the largest in the world), with fine harvests from every tea-producing country and exclusive handcrafted tea blends. Over the years, we have earned international recognition as a true innovator, creating new varieties of tea every season in collaboration with the world’s most renowned estates. TWG Tea also offers exquisite signature modern tea accessories and delicate

will be passed on to future generations. To achieve this success you have to be passionate, ahead of the market, and never stop investing and inventing. Most importantly, it is especially important never to feel superior. I believe it is important to seize opportunities when they occur – you might never have a second chance; to persevere through the inevitable highs and lows of creating a new business with a positive attitude; to have a partner(s) who you can trust your life with; and, to have the courage and to know when to go with your gut instinct. The rest is in the tea leaves! What is the brand’s mission in the next step? TWG Tea’s plans are to truly introduce Taiwan, China, Thailand, and other Asian countries with exceptional harvests such as the exceptional Royal Thai Oolong from Thailand, Lotus Jade Tea from Vietnam or Tawnpeng BOPF from Burma. TWG Tea is also committed to introduce

The key success of TWG Tea has been the creation of a healthy international luxury brand in Asia for the world, a brand that is faithful to the exceptional teas we source, which has a very strong international identity and has maintained and constantly surpassed its level of service over the past six years. tea-infused sweets and savouries. What is the key success of the brand under your management? The key success of TWG Tea has been the creation of a healthy international luxury brand in Asia for the world, a brand that is faithful to the exceptional teas we source, which has a very strong international identity and has maintained and constantly surpassed its level of service over the past six years. This is a company that

168 NOW Travel Asia NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

new teas from other countries around the world, and to surprise our modern clientele with new, more modern tea blends. Together with these countries and their tea connoisseurs, we can evolve these traditions, introducing a new and younger generation to exceptional teas such as Mozambique Mist of Milanje Tea, Brazilian Highland BOP, Persia Lahjian Supreme Tea or the Weekend Tea Collection inspired by the world’s most exotic destinations. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? Asia has always been a draw for travelers and interest in the region is unlikely to wane any time soon. The Asian market has become increasingly sophisticated, offering tourists a plethora of options and new experiences. This is also extended to the luxury traveler, whose discerning taste demands for an attention to detail and refinement that was previously available only in major cities like Hong Kong or Singapore, but are now able to seek out the same level of luxury in emerging markets across Southeast Asia. Recognising this trend, we have opened our first

TWG Tea salon and boutique in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and are on the lookout for other up and coming locations. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? There is most definitely a move towards preference for premium teas, with gourmet and luxury tea consumption increasing with rising affluence in consumers who have travelled internationally, tasted exquisite foodstuffs in all categories and developed a palate keen to appreciate the most refined and subtle intricacies in flavor. Asians moving towards an appreciation of their own heritage products, we believe that there will be a growing interest in the rarer and superior quality teas as well as trend setting tea blends in Asia, as opposed to dust. Black tea was traditionally and commonly exported to Europe and America because it’s the best type of tea that can be kept at sea. However today, European and American consumers enjoy green tea and white tea, not only for the taste but also because of the obvious health benefits and lower caffeine contents that these teas offer.

Vudhichai Harnphanich founder and ceo, Harn Products co.,ltd and harnn concepts co.,ltd

The concept under the brand’s legend? Contemporary Luxury Asian Lifestyle Brand We are proud of our Asian heritage because the wisdom in traditional Thai, Chinese, and Indian medicines are invaluable. Asian accent is also integrated into the packaging, design, and detail concept. Contrasting with Western philosophy, our brand is predominantly based on holistic wellness, using natural extracts to balance the body, mind, and environment. What is the key success of the brand under your management? From the experiences at exhibitions and trade shows, I realized that big brands have a clear direction for their products. Looking back at our brand, we are surrounded by Asian art and wisdom, so we use that as our inspiration and make our award-winning brand unique. Our sale staffs in each outlet are well-trained to advice and give customers insightful recommendations. The customers are mostly educated consumers as our products are natural and made with the best ingredients. We pay attention to every detail. Each department has to work in balance to one another. We do our homework first when we run into a problem, and we learn as much as we can from our mistakes. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? People recognize Harnn as a high-end brand. Walking into our store, the customers are given an experience, not just the product. With presence in 12 countries and 52 stores in Worldwide., we are on our way to become a global brand and we are doing very well. There will be more stores by the end of the year. Harnn is trusted by many leading hotels, the brand has received many proud awards, and it never stop to develop. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? China is a big country and Chinese travelers have tremendous purchasing power. Harnn has come up with Chinese brochures and Chinese shopping list for Chinese tourists. Our product standard is consistent in every product, no matter what language is written on it. And being an Asian product is actually our advantage as Chinese customers feel more connection to the products, compared to Western products.

Looking back at our brand, we are surrounded by Asian art and wisdom, so we use that as our inspiration and make our award-winning brand unique. Our sale staffs in each outlet are well-trained to advice and give customers insightful recommendations.

What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? Harnn currently produces natural body care, skin care, and spa products, but we will focus heavily in skin care in the future. It’ll be hard at first, but the path I believe it’ll get easier as the product receive better recognition. Our short term plan for the next 3 years is to focus on Asian market. We are opening a store in Shanghai, Chengdu, and Guangzhou, and if the European market is recovered, then we would definitely look to European and US market.

NOW Travel Asia 169 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

170 NOW Travel Asia NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Pakin Ployphicha & Toby Allen CEO of Oasis Spa

The concept under the brand’s legend? I was a medical sale representative. I saw so many people at hospitals who weren’t healthy even though they were getting good medical treatment. The idea of Oasis Spa is to offer an alternative way to good life, healthy living, and improve the quality of life. Now we are recognized as the spa destination in Thailand. What is the key success of the brand under your management? In the first 7-8 years, we didn’t take anything out of the company. Everything the company made was put back into it for it to continue its growth. It’s only been the last couple of years that we have been traveling and enjoying life. Up until then, it had always been 1000% effort for the company. What make us unique are the location and the facilities. People didn’t know what a day spa is 11 years ago, and most day spas back then were in small buildings with 2-3 treatment rooms and no garden. Our spa concept is the garden villa spa with unique location and facilities like outdoor shower and Jacuzzi. We have our own trainer, and the first employee we had was a trainer. We train our own staff and we have our training system. You can build any facility you want if you have the money, but if you don’t have a good training system to produce quality staffs. Since we have the training center, we have no trouble with the therapists at all. You have to be on your feet all the time to adapt to any kind of situation. We went through troubled times like political unrest and SARS outbreak, and if we weren’t adaptive, we wouldn’t be able to survive it. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? The company’s vision is to become the best day spa in Asia. But instead of striving to be the best, we strive to do our best. If we do our best, then everything else will fall into place naturally. We don’t fit into the big scope of the industry because we don’t measure ourselves with others, but we measure ourselves against our high standard. So our mission in every step is simply doing our best. We provide the best quality service to all customers by continuous development. We keep driving our team to provide the best service. At the same time, our employees have to be happy with their quality of life, and we have to have some social contribution as well. We are ready to expand oversea, but our oversea partner has to be the right fit for us. We want to work in a happy and sustainable environment. Expansion will happen when we see a need, the location is correct, and we see all the elements to make it successful. We looked for a location in Bangkok for a year before we made our move.

The company’s vision is to become the best day spa in Asia. But instead of striving to be the best, we strive to do our best.

Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? In the next couple of years, South East Asia is going have a lot of tourists after the AEC commenced. ASEAN visa will tempt western tourists to visit the region. As the center hub, Thailand will get a lot of benefit. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? Everyone in the world, especially the people in North and South America, are talking about Asia because the economy is booming. They want to be a part of the vibrancy and see what we are doing differently that makes the economy thrive when other parts of the world are just surviving.

NOW Travel Asia 171 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Pattanapong Ranuraksa Taneth Jiraswakedelok Management, DIVANA & Dii

The concept under the brand’s legend? Dii stemmed from Divana, the mother brand, is the ultimate provider of innovative world-class experience of integrated regenerative medicine, wellness spa science & best-kept oriental wisdom. Dii is striving for creating inner serenity & holistic wellbeing amidst this fast-paced world. What is the key success of the brand under your management? ‘D’ from DIVANA to DESIGN ‘I’ from INNOVATION to INTEGRATION ‘I’ from INNER SERENITY to INTERNATIONAL WELLBEING Originated from Divana, Dii adopts the culture & value of whole-hearted service but additionally equipped with world-class medical technology, it is now on top of a league of its own. Every aspect of products & services at Dii is designed to be unsurpassed. Nothing is left to chance. Dii designs every step of customer experience to the very minuscule details. From Innovation to Integration “Every program, every product, every treatment, at Dii is freshly original through extensive research & development for the serene of every sense “Integration” - Every program is a perfect blend of oriental wisdom with regenerative medicine & the art of wellness spa. From Inner Serenity to International wellbeing Dii creates inner serenity by reuniting body, mind, & spirit through its innovative facilities & ambience together with the original Divana’s science of service. “International wellbeing” - Dii challenged world-class standard for its facilities, services & staffs, all is well prepared to serve international clients from around the globe. At Dii you’ll find distinctive design everywhere from front to back, from product to service, from scent to sense, from process to people, from spa to medical, from wellness to antiaging, from holistic to divine, & from Divana to Dii. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? Dii aims to become top-choice services & products for luxurious well-being among high-end international markets with establishments in major cities around the world. Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? We see a high growth of travelers in this region both from intercontinental & intracontinental. The market, however, will become more clearly separated among the high, medium & low-end. Low & medium-end customers will continue to flux the market. High end tends to be stable with a slight growth. Improved services will be evident in every sectors of tourism business. The gap

Dii creates inner serenity by reuniting body, mind, & spirit through its innovative facilities & ambience together with the original Divana’s science of service.

between ordinary and premium services will be wider. Customers will have to decide which segment of the market they want to be in. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? Travel across borders will be made easy throughout the region. Service systems must be redesigned to be flexible & easy to customize to satisfy a much more diverse base of customers. Most staffs will have to be retrained, or newly recruited. Most importantly, better management of environmentally & socially concerned operations will be greatly needed in all sectors of tourism business.

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Doii Lee Disigner

The concept under the brand’s legend? The concept of the brand is femininity with combination of lots of colours. About my style, I like mixing lots of different colours and different textures. It gives a sense of a pleasure to wear, a pleasure of dressing and a pleasure of being noticed. My customers are the one who likes to be standout from the crowd. They feel confident enough to show themselves off. They are different from other people and don’t want to be blended into the crowd. What is the key success of the brand under your management? I did production in Paris. My studio was in Paris but I always traveled back to Korea for production for sources and fabrics because Korean fabric is really really good. Korean manufacturing is really high standard. I can also trust Korean people. Korean people at work, they are very reliable. I moved to Korea, also my studio. Then, I went to Paris Fashion Week and presented my collection. I got order from high-end multi brand stores’ buyers. Then, I also got orders from Seoul Fashion Week from the buyers from all over the world. I opened my store in (Puta). My business started from Paris, taking order from buyers, then a little bit more in 2009, more buyers with Seoul Fashion Week. Then, there’s more cash flowing with my old store. Now, I open another store in Guangzhou. It was small, It’s slowly evolving itself. In Guangzhou, there is more chance for my brand. People there become more sophisticated. In the beginning, I operated everything myself. But now I have a company. Still, I make all decisions but I have departments now. So, there’re a business team and production team. Now, it’s more dividied. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? My collection has a lot of cultures, a lot of colours and a lot of textures. Now, it’s very popular in the middle-east. In fact, I’ve been invited to Kuwait for big events. So, I’m going to present my fashion show and there’ll be a special event for our brand fans in September. I’m very please that I am recongised in the Middle East. In fact, my collection or my brand will grow in the Middle East market. They nurture, they grow my company. I’m very grateful that I have a market like that. But also I’d like to be more univeral because I think, I have worked with them to make my collection, make my brand more universal. People can wear it everywhere.

About my style, I like mixing lots of different colours and different textures. It gives a sense of a pleasure to wear, a pleasure of dressing and a pleasure of being noticed.

What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? At the moment, the trend is young designers, the key of Korean fashion is young designers. Because they’re emerging with a lot of talent, a lot of idea. And also, people are aware of fashion industry. Before, fashion was known as going to department stores and buy some famous brands. But people start to appreciate sentiment of young designers. They enjoy the differences from the mainstream. So, the key is like that. But I think every country, young designers always struggle with revenues, and sale. They have to deal with lots of problems. At least, people are aware of young designers and their talent, this is important. In Korean market, Korean people love brands from fashion houses from Paris or New York. However, Korea has very strong identity. So, Korean they like their own Korean design too.

NOW Travel Asia 173 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Narissorn SOMSWASDI Owner, mix restaurant & bar

The concept under the brand’s legend? We have a wide range of concept as our original design is modern oriental style but in some branches we have adjusted the concept to be more modern. In terms of food, we serve a various kinds of food which includes Thai, Chinese, Japanese and European. Still, we mainly focus on Thai food to respond to customers’s needs. However, test of our food is authentic. This is very important. We only adapt and develop from the original for the better. For example, we use the best ingredients from the best sources of produce. We apply new techniques of cooking, together with focusing on food presentation. Especially for desert dishes, we apply high techniques to develop food appearance and test to be more special and testy. What is the key success of the brand under your management? As, we have a special character of our own brand, which is quite clear and unique. The concept and design in each branch is quite distinctive. Moreover, we set a price of food in a fair price, but in the same time, we use the best ingredients in every dishes making it reachable to everyone. We also want to develop and enhance food industry to have quality in our operation. What is the brand’s mission in the next step? We plan to open new branches both in Thailand and in our neighbor countries. This will help us reach to a variety of food ingredients and learn new techniques in cooking in each local area, as some techniques are quite similar to ours. As a result of opending new branches in the neighbor countries, it is a way to help develop food industry in the host county because we still have a quality control in each branch.

As, we have a special character of our own brand, which is quite clear and unique. The concept and design in each branch is quite distinctive.

Asia’s tourism market in the next 2 years in your own view? Our brand is one of the very first brands to enter the neighbor countries. I think, in the future, it will become a high competitive market, which is good for customers to have choices of quality foods and services.For our brand, we continue to develop techniques, design and quality of our food and service all the time. What direction of the new Asia which you foresee in the future? As the number of low cost airlines keeps increasing, it makes more convenient and easier for people to travel. And we are in globalization era, not only can we connect to local customers but also customers from around the world, so food must response to the needs of every groups of people.

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