Travel Aggregator (August 2021) by WebBeds Asia Pacific

AUGUST 2021

APAC Newsletter

Perfect Picks for Your Staycation ~ Page 4

Chasing the Sun ~ Page 26

Pack Smart: Travel Essentials for 2021 ~ Page 46

FOREWORD

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

FOREWORD Welcome to this month’s edition of Travel Aggregator, WebBeds’ newsletter dedicated to the travel trade in Asia Pacific! The staycation trend continues to dominate the travel landscape in Asia Pacific, so we ask our local managers about their top recommendations for a domestic break! With expert travel tips and sensational places to stay in Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, the Philippines and Singapore, we have all the info you need to create memorable moments, without straying too far from home. Also in August’s edition, our regional culinary tour continues with the latest part of the “Essential Flavours of Asia Pacific” feature, showcasing the most iconic dishes from Cambodia, Hong Kong, Macau and Thailand, and kickstart your morning in style with our illuminating article on the best places to watch the sunrise. And wherever you travel, make sure you pack perfectly with our review of the latest “Travel Essentials”, all of which can be found in the FIT Rewards store!

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

Enjoy the read! KS Sun President, Asia Pacific WebBeds

@WebBedsAPAC

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

ABOUT TRAVEL AGGREGATOR Travel Aggregator is the monthly newsletter published in-house by WebBeds Asia Pacific. Created especially for our travel trade partners and clients, this informative newsletter will include the latest updates from WebBeds Asia Pacific, including our news and developments, plus exciting offers from our partners, a selection of the hottest hotel deals, and much more! If you’d like to be featured in the next issue of Travel Aggregator, please email Travel.Aggregator@fitruums.com. Alternatively, for marketing partnerships with WebBeds Asia Pacific, please email marketing@fitruums.com.

Emporium Hotel South Bank, Brisbane, Australia

PER FECT

FOR Y

S TAY C A

Staycations are becoming the most popular way of trav

can be frustrating, it is also giving people an unprecede

cities. In this edition of Travel Aggregator, WebBeds’ loca

their favourite places to stay. So, whether you’re seeking

these hotels could help you c

T PICKS

YO U R

AT I O N

velling in the pandemic era. While being stuck at home

ented opportunity to rediscover their own countries and

al managers share their home travel highlights and reveal

g an immersive family break or just a change of scenery,

create memorable moments.

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

The key factors are location, pric accommodation and facilities. Th really depends on what type of st you’re looking for. - Anthony

SYDNEY

ADINA APARTMENT HOTEL COOGEE SYDNEY Recommended by: Michelle Sawtell and Anthony Rumpel, Hotel Procurement Managers – Pacific

This four-star hotel is fantastic for families, as the apartment-style rooms offer more space than a traditional hotel room. It is in the heart of Coogee, one of Sydney’s beachside suburbs, so it’s great for a coastal break. There is an indoor pool and small gym, so you can swim or work out even when it rains.

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

ce, The choice taycation

EMPORIUM HOTEL SOUTH BANK

Location is vital; it should be wi walking distance of attractions to transport. Guests should alwa something to do, whatever the w – Michelle

BRISBANE

EMPORIUM HOTEL SOUTH BANK Recommended by: Michelle Sawtell and Anthony Rumpel, Hotel Procurement Managers – Pacific

Situated in Brisbane’s South Bank Parklands precinct, overlooking the river, this hotel is surrounded by things to do, such as the Gallery of Modern Art, entertainment venues, walkways, numerous restaurants, bars and cafés, and a large public swimming lagoon. Five-star facilities at the hotel include a rooftop terrace, infinity pool and French restaurant.

EMPORIUM HOTEL SOUTH BANK

ithin s and close ays have weather.

CORDIS HONG KONG

With so many staycation packa offer now, I look for bonus inclu such as free upgrades…

HONG KONG

CORDIS HONG KONG Recommended by: Nikki Ho, Contracts Manager – Hong Kong & Macau

This is a fantastic five-star hotel at any time, but now it is even more attractive with complimentary room upgrades. Its location in Mongkok makes it a great base from which to explore the lively markets and street food of Kowloon, and the adjacent Langham Place Mall houses over 200 shops and restaurants.

CORDIS HONG KONG

ages on usions,

R O YA L PA C I F I C H O T E L & T O W E R S

… and dining credits to not only my stay but make it all so conven – Nikki

HONG KONG

ROYAL PACIFIC HOTEL & TOWERS Recommended by: Nikki Ho, Contracts Manager – Hong Kong & Macau

This is an outstanding upscale hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui, making it superb for shopping and sightseeing. Under the Room & Dining Credit package, guests are being offered their entire room rate back in hotel credit, which can be redeemed at the four award-winning restaurants. Guests staying in the Towers Wing will also be treated to free in-room beverages.

R O YA L PA C I F I C H O T E L & T O W E R S

y complete nient!

H O T E L N E W O TA N I E X E C U T I V E H O U S E Z E N

Location is the key; it needs to b from the hustle and bustle…

TOKYO

HOTEL NEW OTANI EXECUTIVE HOUSE ZEN Recommended by: Hideki Urabe, Senior Contracts Manager – Japan

While it’s situated in the centre of Tokyo, this five-star hotel is nestled in a beautiful garden with a waterfall, which makes it feel very peaceful. Guests can unwind by walking around the garden, visiting the nearby Hieda Shrine, or simply enjoying the hotel’s facilities, which include a wide selection of restaurants, bars and an executive lounge.

H O T E L N E W O TA N I E X E C U T I V E H O U S E Z E N

be away

L’ H O T E L D E H I E I

… surrounded by nice scenery, a spiritual “power spot”. – Hideki

KYOTO

L’HOTEL DE HIEI Recommended by: Hideki Urabe, Senior Contracts Manager – Japan

Just 30 minutes from the centre of Kyoto, this midscale hotel is nestled in the hills of Mount Hiei, the “Mother Mountain” of Japanese Buddhism and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is a place that exudes a sense of serenity. After a peaceful day, guests can enjoy a barbecue at the hotel with friends or family.

L’ H O T E L D E H I E I

and near a

C I N TA I C O R I T O S G A R D E N

“For a staycation, space is all-imp

MANILA

CINTAI CORITOS GARDEN Recommended by: Cherry Rodriguez, Contracts Manager – Philippines

This is a Balinese-themed garden resort just a short drive from the busy streets of Manila, so it’s perfect for a mental detox. The atmosphere is very good for relaxation, and it’s family-friendly because of its spacious villas and four swimming pools, kids’ playground, outdoor spa area and mini forest to explore.

C I N TA I C O R I T O S G A R D E N

portant…

NOBU HOTEL CITY OF DREAMS MANILA

...The hotel should have big roo lots of open areas to let guests quality time together. – Cherry

MANILA

NOBU HOTEL CITY OF DREAMS MANILA Recommended by: Cherry Rodriguez, Contracts Manager – Philippines

This five-star hotel is outstanding for an urban staycation in Manila. Located in Entertainment City, the rooms and suites are very spacious with big, comfortable beds and bathtubs. It also has an expansive swimming pool and is surrounded by gardens where you can chill out after a tiring day. Room upgrades are available at times.

NOBU HOTEL CITY OF DREAMS MANILA

oms and spend

O N E FA R R E R H O T E L S I N G A P O R E

It’s important that a hotel has fam rooms and plenty of onsite ame such as a swimming pool, kids’ fitness centre and F&B options – Jason

SINGAPORE

ONE FARRER HOTEL SINGAPORE Recommended by: Jason Fong and Jaime Wong, Contracts Managers – Singapore

The Skyline Studio Rooms are ideal for families, with plenty of living space and two queen-sized beds, and the Skyline Lounge offers a wide range of extra amenities. Located close to Farrer Park MRT in the Little India area, it is also near to shopping malls and the heritage trail.

O N E FA R R E R H O T E L S I N G A P O R E

mily enities, club, s.

PA R K R O YA L C O L L E C T I O N M A R I N A B AY

Location is the key factor. I wan that is in close proximity to her trails, shopping malls, food ce and other attractions. – Jaime

SINGAPORE

PARKROYAL COLLECTION MARINA BAY Recommended by: Jason Fong and Jaime Wong, Contracts Managers – Singapore

This newly-renovated five-star hotel is perfectly positioned in Marina Bay. Its “garden in a hotel” concept with 2,400 trees and plants, vast living walls, pavilions, a skybridge and large swimming pool creates the feeling of getting away from it all, while also being surrounded by attractions, restaurants and retail outlets.

PA R K R O YA L C O L L E C T I O N M A R I N A B AY

nt a hotel ritage entres

HONG KONG MEGA SUMMER SALE Beat the heat in Hong Kong this summer with exclusive deals of up to 60% off selected hotels. Book and stay from now till 30 Sep 2021. View all hotel deals

Chasing Sun the

Sunrise is such an evocative time of day; not only is

it beautiful, it also symbolises new beginnings, fresh opportunities and brighter times ahead. At sunrise, anything is possible. For travellers, seeing dawn break in a new place can be an inspiring and exhilarating experience, and can provide a different perspective on life. In this edition of Travel Aggregator, we will shine a light on some of the most spectacular spots to watch the sunrise in Asia, along with the best places to stay.

GREAT WALL OF CHINA BEIJING, CHINA The Great Wall of China is an awe-inspiring destination at any time of day, but at sunrise it takes on an extra sense of wonder. Have your camera ready as the morning sun climbs above the wall and casts light and shadow across the rolling hills. Autumn provides some of the best opportunities to catch the first light of day at the Badaling or Mutianyu sections of the Great Wall, both of which are easily accessible from Beijing.

H O T E L É C L AT B E I J I N G

WHERE TO STAY

HOTEL ÉCLAT BEIJING This stunning, art-inspired boutique hotel shines

terraces and private pools. Dine in style at

like a beacon of luxury on the downtown skyline.

a choice of restaurants, including Italian,

Set on the upper floors of the award-winning

Chinese and Japanese options, with sparkling

Parkview Green tower, this five-star hotel features

views across the city.

just 100 rooms, including 20 suites with sky

T H E G R E A T WA L L H O T E L B E I J I N G

WHERE TO STAY

THE GREAT WALL HOTEL BEIJING This impressive five-star hotel provides an excellent

featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, plus an

base for any exploration of Beijing and the Great

indoor pool, fitness centre and several dining

Wall. Located in the Chaoyang district, within

options, including the signature 21st floor

walking distance of the Metro network, guests

Chinese restaurant.

can discover 350 spacious rooms and suites, all

SEONGSAN ILCHULBONG JEJU ISLAND, SOUTH KOREA Seongsan Ilchulbong, which also goes by “Sunrise Peak”, is a natural peninsula on the east coast of Jeju Island and one of the most breath-taking places in Asia to visit at the break of dawn. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this circular volcanic cone is 182 metres high and covered in verdant grass. It takes about 30 minutes to climb the steps to the top, but the views are simply stunning.

BROWN SUITES JEJU HOTEL AND RESORT

WHERE TO STAY

BROWN SUITES JEJU HOTEL AND RESORT Stay in style and soak up sunrise views from your

and suites, including family options, chill out

room every morning. This hotel overlooks Seongsan in the “Blue Lagoon” indoor swimming pool

Ilchulbong, Seopjikoji Temple, Udo Island and the

and children’s pool, or enjoy panoramic views

Korea Strait. Guests can stay in a choice of rooms

from the rooftop observation deck.

PHOENIX SEOPJIKOJI

WHERE TO STAY

PHOENIX SEOPJIKOJI Blend the natural beauty of Jeju Island with

restaurant and an observation deck that

contemporary Korean design and hospitality at

frames endless ocean views. Explore the

this outstanding hotel. Perched on the rugged

onsite art gallery, chill out at La Soleil or stroll

shoreline, surrounded by nature, this art-inspired

along coastal trails.

hotel features a glass house with a modern

LAD KOH VIEW POINT KOH SAMUI, THAILAND Perched on a hill on the idyllic east coast of Koh Samui, Lad Koh View Point is the perfect place to see the sunrise over the glittering Gulf of Thailand. It is easily accessible, just 15 minutes’ drive from the main tourist area of Chaweng, and yet also exudes a sense of peace and serenity. The beach is blessed with white sand and a local restaurant means there’s no need to rush back.

C H AW E N G R E G E N T B E A C H R E S O R T

WHERE TO STAY

CHAWENG REGENT BEACH RESORT Unwind in a private paradise at this beautiful

feels blissfully secluded however, Chaweng

beachfront retreat, which is nestled on the

Regent Beach Resort is in the heart of

powder-soft sand of Chaweng Beach. With

Koh Samui’s most popular tourist area,

flowing pools and low-rise buildings, it exudes the

surrounded by attractions and amenities.

enchanting ambience of a Thai village. While it

THE SARANN KOH SAMUI

WHERE TO STAY

THE SARANN KOH SAMUI Just 350 metres from Lad Koh View Point, The

Beach, this seafront retreat offers a collection

Sarann is a chic upscale resort that showcases

of spacious rooms and private pool villas,

spectacular views across the turquoise sea. Nestled

plus an alfresco restaurant and an oceanfront

in a serene setting at the tip of Chaweng Noi

infinity pool.

Experience Exception Hospitality in Thailan

Don’t miss the summer adventures, get u 80% off and stay with confidence at our recommended SHA+ certified hotels & re See all deals in Phuket & Koh Samui

nal nd

up to

esorts!

HONG KONG CAMBODIA Must-try Dish: Amok Trey ----------------------------------This fragrant fish curry is believed to date from the Khmer Empire and is the main dish of Cambodia’s annual water festival, which celebrates the changing flow of the Tonle Sap River. The fish is marinated in a spicy paste and coconut cream, before being wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until tender. Coconut is grated on top to add a touch of sweetness.

Must-try Dish: Dim Sum ----------------------------------With a rich history that stretches back to the days of the ancient Silk Road, dim sum is perhaps the most famous dish of Cantonese cuisine. Literally meaning “touch the heart”, these delightful dumplings can be discovered all across Hong Kong, from street-side stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants. Pick a selection and savour them with your loved ones alongside a pot of tea.

To taste the authentic flavour of any country or city, it’s essential to eat like the locals. This month, WebBeds’ culinary tour of Asia Pacific continues with trips to Cambodia, Hong Kong, Macau and Thailand! We reveal the signature dishes in each of these destinations that keep diners coming back, time and again. But which do you still need to tick off your gastronomic bucket list?

THAILAND Must-try Dish: Pad Thai

MACAU

----------------------------------Is Pad Thai the world’s most famous street food?

Must-try Dish: Portuguese Egg Tarts (Po Tat)

With a history that dates from World War II,

---------------------------------------

this classic blend of stir-fried noodles, egg and

Inspired by the traditional pastéis de nata, these

condiments creates the perfect balance of sweet

creamy custard tarts reflect Macau’s European

and savoury, complemented by crisp beansprouts,

heritage. But while they are Portuguese in origin,

crunchy peanuts and squeeze of sour lime. Often

po tat (as they are known locally) were actually

served with tofu, prawns or chicken, this dish is

introduced by British baker Andrew Stow, who

quick, simple and supremely satisfying.

tasted the classic version and created his own Macanese recipe. Taste them fresh out of the oven at one of the city’s specialty bakeries.

PACK SMART:

Travel Essentials 2021 for

The global pandemic has impacted all aspects of life and travel. Not only has it affected where we can visit; it has changed what we need to pack and take with us. Whether you are planning an international business trip, a domestic vacation or simply a road trip with your close friends or family, here are three of the new top travel essentials that you should not leave home without.

A P P L E A I R TA G

Travelling during a pandemic can be stressful. We no longer only need to remember our passports, purses and keys; now we have a wealth of additional paperwork, travel documents and immigration requirements to take care of. Wouldn’t it be great if we had a device to keep track of everything?

A P P L E A I R TA G

WEBBEDS RECOMMENDS

APPLE AIR TAG This sleek, lightweight, button-sized tracking device can be attached to just about anything you don’t want to lose, such as luggage, passport holders and even children! Linked to your iPhone’s “Find My” app, this is a great way to stay connected with your most valued possessions. In these times of elevated stress, being able to “ping” a lost item will come as a huge relief.

AirTag™ is a trademark of Apple Inc.

S TA S H E R S I L I C O N E R E U S A B L E S T O R A G E B A G

Do you worry about the safety or availability of food when you travel? With many airports closing their restaurants and some airlines having stopped their in-flight meals, travellers need to make sure they carry their own snacks. But what’s the best way to keep your food fresh when you’re on the move?

S TA S H E R S I L I C O N E R E U S A B L E S T O R A G E B A G

WEBBEDS RECOMMENDS

STASHER SILICONE REUSABLE STORAGE BAG Unlike standard plastic containers, this innovative product is durable, portable and environmentallyfriendly. We all want to avoid single-use plastics nowadays, so Stasher’s endlessly reusable, nontoxic platinum silicone version is a great option. So far, these handy containers have prevented over a million plastic bags from entering landfill sites or oceans, which makes them perfect for ecoconscious travellers.

Stasher® is a registered trademark of Stasher, Inc.

Image Credit: Stasher Bag

UNIQLO AIRISM MASK

One of the biggest changes in the last 18 months has been the requirement to wear a mask in almost all public places, including airports and hotel reception areas. But this has created new challenges; disposable masks being improperly discarded are littering the streets and seas, creating a real danger to wildlife.

UNIQLO AIRISM MASK

WEBBEDS RECOMMENDS

UNIQLO AIRISM MASK Fully reusable and highly sustainable, this mask is much better for the environment than singleuse versions. It is also light and breathable, which is perfect for the hot summer months, while also featuring a three-layered structure that helps to filter out harmful particles, protecting the wearer and others. This could become your new go-to travel item for the post-pandemic era.

Image credit: Uniqlo

All these recommended travel items are now available on the FIT Rewards store. Start shopping today and discover our latest range of products! Redeem Now on FIT Rewards! Not a FIT Rewards member? Sign up today!

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