Travel Aggregator (January 2022) by WebBeds Asia Pacific

JANUARY 2022

APAC Newsletter

Let’s Get Even! ~ Page 6

Bucket List Travel Experiences of 2022

Experience Dubai The Host with The Most!

~ Page 24

~ Page 42

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 Happy New Year and welcome to the first Travel Aggregator of 2022! This month, WebBeds’ dedicated travel trade newsletter for Asia Pacific is back with a bang, with a series of fantastic features and insights to set you up for the year ahead. Have you made your New Year’s resolutions yet? As the world starts moving again, this could be the perfect time to start ticking off your travel bucket list! In this edition, we’ll showcase some of the iconic activities that you could experience in the next 12 months. And that’s not all; if you’ve been longing to travel again, we’ll highlight some of Asia’s old favourites and hidden gems that could satisfy your desire for “revenge travel” in 2022. If you want to make this year truly unforgettable, try going bigger and better than ever before! Dubai is the home to a collection of record-breaking attractions that you can visit as part of your trip to Expo 2020. Following the recent global upheaval, I am optimistic that we are on the road to recovery. Whatever 2022 holds in store, WebBeds will be by your side on every step of your journey. We are always stronger when we work together.

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 and have a great year ahead! 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.

Tick Maldives off your bucket list in 2022

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Thailand

T H E S TA N D A R D H UA H I N

The Standard Hua Hin

NEWLY OPENED

T H E S TA N D A R D H UA H I N

Experience chic beach vibes on Thailand’s gulf coast at The Standard, Hua Hin’s newest and coolest resort. Newly opened on 1st December 2021, this stunning seafront resort blends art-deco style with tropical charm. Guests can choose from a variety of 199 lowrise rooms, suites and villas, all of which feature balconies near the beach and cutting-edge facilities such as Bluetooth speakers and rain showers. For an extra sense of indulgence, visitors staying in the suites and villas will also be treated to breakfast in bed and a bottle of sparkling wine. Endless days can be spent relaxing on the soft sandy beach or lazing around the Lido pool, sipping cool drinks or savouring American-style bites from the Lido Bar. Alternatively, The Juice Café lets guests recharge their bodies with healthy blends and other beverages, and Praça is a blissful beach bar and restaurant where Thai heritage meets contemporary cuisine. With hotels in some of the world’s most desirable destinations, from Miami Beach to the Maldives, London to New York, Hollywood to Hua Hin, The Standard is now raising the flag for seafront sophistication in Thailand.

Let's Get Even! Revenge is not a nice word, but sometimes its motivation can be overwhelming. The global pandemic forced us all to put our lives on hold; we couldn’t travel, eat out or meet our friends. Many people couldn’t even see their families. Now, as restrictions start to ease and the world opens up, we have a chance to take revenge! Whether you’ve been longing to discover new places or revisit an old favourite, now is the time to follow your dreams.

BANGKOK HIDDEN GEM:TALAD NOI (CHAROEN KRUNG ROAD) Can’t wait to get back to Bangkok, but want a change from the neon lights and mega malls? Take a leisurely stroll along Chaoren Krung, the city’s first major road and a haven of urban art. Uncover striking 3D designs and wall murals as you walk towards Talad Noi and Chinatown, stopping off at cool cafés and independent galleries en route. Make sure you have your camera ready; photo opportunities await around every corner!

A S A I BA N G KO K C H I NAT O W N

WHERE TO STAY

ASAI BANGKOK CHINATOWN

Feel the buzz of the city at this modern midscale

fast, free Wi-Fi, the green courtyard garden is

hotel, which is perfectly positioned just steps from

an oasis of calm, and Jam Jam Eatery & Bar

the bustling markets and sizzling street food stalls

specialises in authentic dishes. This is a great

of Charoen Krung and Yaowarat roads. The rooms

base from which to explore the sights and

are contemporary, comfy and connected with

sounds of Chinatown.

SHANGHAI MANSION BANGKOK

WHERE TO STAY

SHANGHAI MANSION BANGKOK Immerse yourself in the spirit of Chinatown at

suites with classical furnishings and upscale

Shanghai Mansion Bangkok. Set in a former

amenities, unwind in the spa, dine at the Red

trading house and opera hall, this award-winning

Rose restaurant, which takes Chinese cuisine

boutique hotel showcases chic interior design and

back to its roots, then chill out at the jazz

a deep sense of mystique. Stay in stylish rooms and lounge, overlooking Yaowarat Road.

LANGKAWI OLD FAVOURITE:KILIM GEOFOREST PARK Having spent so long locked down, experiencing the world only through a screen, what could be more alluring than escaping to a lush tropical wonderland, with limitless freedom to explore forests, beaches, lagoons, caves and much more? This natural paradise awaits at Kilim Geoforest Park, the 100-square kilometre sanctuary in Langkawi. Set your body and mind free as you stroll along wooden paths, past mangroves and aquamarine seas, and gaze up at the towering jungle-clad karsts where sea eagles soar.

C A S A D E L M A R L A N G K AW I

WHERE TO STAY

CASA DEL MAR LANGKAWI

Discover the natural wonders of Langkawi at

courtyards, floral gardens and beautiful beach.

Casa del Mar, an upscale island retreat that

Take a dip in the sea-facing pool, soothe your

blends Southeast Asian elegance with the charm

body at the Satkara Spa, or simply unwind on

and warmth of the Mediterranean. The pace

the soft sand. Then dine under the stars as the

of life seems to slow down amid the terracotta

sun sets over the ocean.

T H E S M I T H H O U S E L A N G K AW I

WHERE TO STAY

THE SMITH HOUSE LANGKAWI The Smith House infuses every stay with a sense

rooms and suites, all with “Sassy Beds” and smart

of comfort and familiarity. Just moments from

connectivity. The rooftop pool is a great place to

the airport and surrounded by shops, cafés and

kick back and relax, overlooking the island, while

attractions, this modern midscale hotel exudes

The Absolut and Absolum offer great local and

convenience. Stay in a choice of 75 well-equipped

international food to eat in or take away.

MELBOURNE OLD FAVOURITE:HARDWARE LANE Melbourne is famous for its cool cafés and cosmopolitan culinary scene. At the centre of this captivating culture is Hardware Lane, a popular spot for daytime dining and after-dark eats which buzzes with life at all hours. A brighter and breezier version of Melbourne’s famous alleyways and arcades, this is the perfect place to pull up a chair, enjoy alfresco cuisine, listen to live music or step up to rooftop terraces and sip cocktails above the crowds.

C A U S E WA Y 3 5 3 H O T E L

WHERE TO STAY

CAUSEWAY 353 HOTEL Tucked away in one of Melbourne’s iconic laneways, room, or dine at the restaurant. Then head out

just off Little Collins Street, Causeway 353 Hotel

and experience Melbourne’s top attractions,

puts you in the heart of the city’s vibrant social

shops and entertainment venues right on the

scene. Stay in style with well-equipped king, twin

doorstep, or easily accessible via the city’s free

and triple rooms, unwind at the gym and steam

tram network.

YEHS HOTEL MELBOURNE CBD

WHERE TO STAY

YEHS HOTEL MELBOURNE CBD If you’re seeking a prime city centre setting for

Docklands Stadium, this upscale hotel promises

your urban escape, Melbourne Hotel CBD is the

complete convenience. A selection of rooms and

obvious choice. With its prime position on Little

one-bedroom apartments create flexible options for

Bourke Street, surrounded top attractions such as

all types of travellers and Melbourne’s most popular

the Melbourne Aquarium, Eureka Skydeck 88 and

restaurants, bars and shops are within easy reach.

SINGAPORE HIDDEN GEM:GEYLANG Explore a side of Singapore you’ve never seen before in Geylang, an edgy, engaging and energetic enclave that inspires the senses. Once infamous as the Lion City’s red light district, this is a unique neighbourhood where Peranakan shophouses, places of worship and authentic local restaurants sit side-by-side. With lively streets and hawker stalls that specialise in eclectic cuisine, from Indian biryani to frog leg porridge, this is an area that demands closer inspection.

OASIA HOTEL D OWNTOWN

WHERE TO STAY

OASIA HOTEL DOWNTOWN A breath of fresh air in downtown Singapore,

and filled with soothing sky gardens, terraces

this 27-storey hotel combines cutting-edge

and green screens. Unwind in modern rooms

architecture with lush foliage to create a verdant

and suites, or recharge with a refreshing dip in

oasis in the heart of the city. This tropical skyscraper the rooftop pool, then head out to explore the is blessed with living, breathing vertical gardens

sights and sounds of this compelling city.

PA N PA C I F I C S I N G A P O R E

WHERE TO STAY

PAN PACIFIC SINGAPORE Perfectly positioned in the centre of Singapore, this rooms and suites with city and sea views, experience five-star hotel is within easy walking distance of the award-winning dining, soothe your senses at St. city’s most iconic attractions, including Marina Bay,

Gregory Spa and take a dip in the outdoor pool, or

and just 15 minutes from Geylang. Enjoy luxurious

elevate your stay at the Pacific Club, the stunning

accommodation in a collection of contemporary

sanctuary on Level 38.

B U C K E T L I E X P E R I E

If we can learn any lesson from the global pand

and pursue our dreams. No one knows wha

As the New Year dawns and the world starts m our travel plans. Let’s stop putting our dreams

possible” and start ticking off

Here are four unmissable trips tha

S T T R A V E L N C E S O F

demic, it is that we should live life to the fullest

at’s around the corner, so seize the moment!

moving again, this is a great time to reconsider on hold; let’s change “someday” to “as soon as

f our bucket list destinations!

at could change your life in 2022…

Embrace Nature on the Californian Coast

SAN FRANCISCO, USA

After the stress of the pandemic, getting back to nature is a priority for many people. So where better to immerse yourself in Earth’s beauty than Muir Woods National Monument, the spectacular 224-hectare forest park that is home to some of the planet’s tallest trees, Californian coastal redwoods which soar up to 80 metres high. Hike or cycle along woodland trails that stretch all the way to the beach. Then take a short 30-minute drive to San Francisco and see iconic attractions such as the Golden Gate Bridge.

FA I R M O N T S A N F R A N C I S C O

WHERE TO STAY

FAIRMONT SAN FRANCISCO Fairmont San Francisco is a genuine urban icon. Perched atop one of the city’s most famous hills, it has been a popular choice for presidents, dignitaries and movie stars ever since it opened in 1907. This makes it the perfect place to stay for guests who appreciate a sense of heritage and prestige, as well as five-star accommodation and fantastic facilities, surrounded by attractions and overlooking the city skyline and sparkling waters of San Francisco Bay.

Take a Royal Sightseeing Tour in London

LONDON, UK

Is there a city on Earth with a greater collection of activities and attractions than London? The UK capital lets you achieve many lifelong dreams in a single visit. Head to Buckingham Palace and watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, savour afternoon tea in a top London hotel, take a boat ride down the River Thames to Tower Bridge, and see the Crown Jewels in the Tower of London. London’s lights are shining again and this legendary city is ready to boost your bucket list!

T H E R O YA L H O R S E G UA R D S H O T E L

WHERE TO STAY

THE ROYAL HORSEGUARDS HOTEL Surround yourself with British sophistication at The Horseguards Hotel. Overlooking the Thames in the heart of the city, just steps from Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, this historic property is housed on the site of the former National Liberal Club, which hosted iconic figures such as Winston Churchill. Stay in chic rooms and suites, experience five-star services and discover award-winning dining at the One Twenty One Two restaurant.

Take a Heli Hike to Franz Josef Glacier

FRANZ JOSEF, NEW ZEALAND

F R A N Z J O S E F, N E W Z E A L A N D

Deep within Westland Tai Poutini National Park lies one of New Zealand’s most breath-taking natural treasures: Franz Josef Glacier. This 12km-long river of ice has become a bucket-list destination for many hikers in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed region, which stretches along the west coast of the South Island. There is surely no more dramatic way to explore this landscape than with a “heli hike”, which combines an exhilarating helicopter ride with an intrepid two-hour trek on the glacier itself. Simply stunning!

SCENIC HOTEL FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER

WHERE TO STAY

SCENIC HOTEL FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER Soak up the spectacular scenery of the Southern Alps at Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier. Stay in a collection of contemporary rooms and suites, with panoramic views of the soaring snow-capped mountains. Then, after a day of glacial exploration, head back and savour hearty local cuisine at the restaurant, warm up next to the open fireplace at the Moa Bar, take a dip in private hot pools or relax with a rejuvenating treatment at Amaia Luxury Spa.

See the Maldives from the Sky

MALDIVES

Is any destination as desirable as the Maldives? With its private island resorts and picture-postcard scenery, it promises the ultimate tropical island escape. Naturally, most people visit the Maldives to chill out on powder-soft sands and splash in warm seas, but to truly appreciate the archipelago’s breath-taking beauty, you must see it from the sky. Take a seaplane ride to discover hundreds of tiny islands, all blessed with verdant interiors, white beaches and turquoise lagoons, dotted across the azure Indian Ocean.

RADISSON BLU RESORT MALDIVES

WHERE TO STAY

RADISSON BLU RESORT MALDIVES Radisson Blu Resort Maldives lets guests enjoy the full Maldivian private island experience. Stay in a choice of beachfront or overwater villas with private pools, dine at outstanding restaurants and bars, and unwind with world-class leisure activities and exhilarating water sports. Take a diving trip to one of the best places on Earth to see whale sharks, then soothe your senses with a massage at the Blu Spa, which overlooks the endless ocean.

EXPERIENCE DUBAI – THE HOST WITH THE MOST! Dubai has become one of the world’s most dramatic and dynamic tourist destinations – a city of superlatives where everything is bigger, better and bolder than its rivals. This makes it the perfect place to hold the World Expo, a celebration of human achievement. Running until 31st March 2022, Expo 2020 in Dubai promises to “change the way you see the world”. And with so many iconic attractions, from the world’s tallest building to the highest restaurant, deepest swimming pool and largest observation wheel, this amazing city certainly lives up to its promise! Here are four record-breaking experiences to try in Dubai…

S AV O U R T H E W O R L D ’ S H I G H E S T A F T E R N O O N T E A

SAVOUR THE WORLD’S HIGHEST AFTERNOON TEA “High tea” takes on a new meaning in Dubai! For a truly indulgent afternoon experience, head up to At.mosphere, the world’s highest restaurant. On the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, you can tuck into a sublime selection of sweet and savoury treats including mini sandwiches, pastries and scones, along with premium tea, fresh coffee or cool cocktails, accompanied by 180-degree views of this ever-changing city and the Arabian Gulf.

V I S I T E X P O 2 0 2 0 – T H E WO R L D’ S L A R G E S T C U LT U R A L E XC HA N G E

VISIT EXPO 2020 – THE WORLD’S LARGEST CULTURAL EXCHANGE The World Expo has a rich history of promoting cultural understanding and showcasing the achievements of humankind. Expo 2020 in Dubai marks the first time this global event has been hosted in the Middle East, and while it was delayed for a year, the wait has been worth it. With 192 countries being represented in a series of spectacular pavilions, along with interactive workshops, exhibits and experiences, this World Expo will go down in history!

V I S I T E X P O 2 0 2 0 – T H E WO R L D’ S L A R G E S T C U LT U R A L E XC HA N G E

Photo credit: Expo2020Dubai.com

R I D E O N T H E W O R L D ’ S T A L L E S T O B S E R VA T I O N W H E E L

RIDE ON THE WORLD’S TALLEST OBSERVATION WHEEL When it was announced that Dubai would build an observation wheel, it came as no surprise that it would be the largest in the world! In this city of record breakers, Ain Dubai (“Dubai Eye”) is no exception. At 250 metres high, it is over 80 metres taller than the next highest Ferris wheel, the High Roller in Las Vegas. Each full-circle ride takes 38 minutes to complete and VIP options with private dining are available for special occasions.

DIVE IN THE WORLD’S DEEPEST PO OL

DIVE IN THE WORLD’S DEEPEST POOL In a city of soaring skyscrapers and dazzling landmarks, Deep Dive Dubai stands out as offering something a little different. Newly opened in July 2021, this is the world’s deepest pool – a manmade abyss that allows scuba divers to plunge 60 metres below the surface and explore an intriguing sunken city. With 56 underwater cameras and large windows all around the pool, nondivers can also be immersed in this unique aquatic adventure.

DIVE IN THE WORLD’S DEEPEST PO OL

RECOMMENDED HOTELS IN DUBAI

INTERCONTINENTAL DUBAI MARINA InterContinental Dubai Marina is perfectly positioned amid the city’s attractions, just moments from Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters Island, the home of Ain Dubai. Stay in luxurious rooms and residences, enjoy delectable dining at a choice of seven restaurants and lounges, and discover world-class health and wellness facilities, all in the heart of Dubai Marina and a short drive from site of Expo 2020.

ME DUBAI ME Dubai stands out as a masterpiece of contemporary architecture in this ultra-modern city. Designed by Zaha Hadid, this five-star hotel features a spectacular façade and minimalist interiors with organic curves and dramatic lighting. Standout facilities include The Maine Oyster Bar and ROKA by Zuma, the stylish Japanese grill, plus Dubai’s first Technogym Biocircuit gym, all just moments from the Burj Khalifa.

Download full list of hotel recommendations in Dubai

RECOMMENDED HOTELS IN DUBAI

PALAZZO VERSACE DUBAI Palazzo Versace Dubai brings classic Italian design to this contemporary city. The rooms and suites reflect the essence of the Versace label, including silk furnishings, while fine-dining restaurants exude the exquisite ambience of European hospitality, including Vanitas, the signature Italian restaurant, and Giardino, the elegant garden terrace. Soothing spa journeys can be enjoyed at the hotel’s 1,000-square metre marble spa.

SLS HOTEL AND RESIDENCES DUBAI SLS Hotel and Residences Dubai elevates your stay to new levels of luxury. Set in a soaring 75-storey tower, this stunning five-star hotel offers unparalleled 360-degree views of the city – especially from its two rooftop infinity pools, the highest in the world! The rooms, suites and apartments showcase sleek design and floor-to-ceiling windows. Exceptional restaurants, chic bars and a sublime spa complete the experience.

Download full list of hotel recommendations in Dubai

J a n ua r y 20 22

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