The post Australian Tourism Exchange officially opens appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) officially opened in Brisbane/Meanjin on Monday, 28th April, kicking off a four day programme of business appointments between members of the Australian tourism industry and global tourism wholesalers and retailers.

Running till Thursday, 1st May, ATE expects the attendance of around 1,600 Australian sellers and over 700 global buyers.

Attendees will take part in 60,000 appointments at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

According to Tourism Australia managing director Phillipa Harrison, ATE is  the tourism board’s largest annual trade event and plays a crucial role in driving business from key international tourism markets to Australian tourism operators.

Harrison said: “ATE is a chance for our tourism industry to meet face-to-face with key tourism decision makers from around the world and tell them about the incredible products and experiences Australia has to offer for international holidaymakers.”

Furthermore, the 1,600 Australian sellers in Brisbane will have access to buyers from 31 countries and the connections they make in coming days will drive international travellers to their businesses in the months and years ahead.

ATE25 is delivered by Tourism Australia in partnership with Tourism Events Queensland, with support from the Brisbane Economic Development Agency.

A welcome return

Queensland minister for the environment and tourism Andrew Powell pointed out how Brisbane is extremely fortunate to host ATE25, as the event was last held in Queensland’s capital city 17 years ago.

Powell said: “Brisbane has changed significantly since the Australian Tourism Exchange was last here, and we’re so excited to have the opportunity to showcase just how much our city and state have evolved over time – we’ve got more to offer than ever before. We’ve certainly made the most of this brilliant hosting opportunity, with Queensland tourism operators taking up 191 booths, including 17 Indigenous operators, taking over a quarter of the trade show floor.”

He added that, as Brisbane is slated to host the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the state government is determined to enhance its global appeal.

Powell said: “There is simply no better opportunity to showcase Queensland’s countless connections to sea, land and culture than at ATE25. We want these international tourism decision makers coming back to our shores with as many visitors as possible in the lead up to 2032, during and well beyond.”

For his part, Brisbane’s lord mayor Adrian Schrinner said the 2025 Australian Tourism Exchange would drive more business to local tourism operators.

He said: “Brisbane is Australia’s lifestyle capital, and our tourism operators are a key reason why we are capturing global attention as one of the best places in the world to visit.”

Schrimmer added that the ATE provides a fantastic platform to give tourism operators an edge internationally and stand out in a saturated market.

He said: “This will ensure Brisbane remains a destination of choice for international visitors by showcasing just how much there is to see and do here.”

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The post Tourism Authority of Thailand presents its country as a prime Muslim-friendly destination appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is highlighting Thailand’s position as a premier Muslim-friendly destination at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025.

TAT’s participation at the event is in line with the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 initiative.

At the event, TAT announced new partnerships with key GCC-based airlines, including Emirates and Etihad Airways, to enhance connectivity and offer co-branded campaigns that showcase Thailand’s wellness and luxury experiences. 

These initiatives aim to help TAT reach its 2025 target of over 1 million visitors from the Middle East and Africa (MEA).

According to TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool: “Thailand is proud to offer an inclusive, seamless travel experience for Muslim travellers. We now have an extensive network of Halal-certified restaurants, prayer facilities at major airports and shopping centres, and luxury accommodations with private and gender-segregated amenities. We believe these features make Thailand a compelling choice for the Muslim travel market.”

Specifically for the Muslim market

For its participation at ATM 2025, TAT has developed tailored travel packages for families, honeymooners, and wellness seekers from the GCC region. 

These curated experiences focus on privacy, cultural exploration, shopping, and relaxation, all of which were designed in line with the values and expectations of Muslim travellers.

Last year, Thailand welcomed over 956,000 visitors from the MEA region, a 25.6 percent increase from the previous year. 

Indeed, the Southeast Asian country remains a top destination among high-spending travellers from the Middle East who seek longer stays and personalised itineraries.

As part of its broader campaign, TAT is showcasing the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 at ATM. The nationwide celebration features year-round festivals, global sporting events, and exclusive travel privileges. 

Key focus areas include sports tourism, wellness, culture, gastronomy, and luxury, each offering immersive and personalised experiences that reflect Thailand’s commitment to sustainable, creative, and innovative tourism.

Thailand is a must

The campaign also highlights Thailand’s “5 Must-Do Experiences”: Must Taste, Must Try, Must Buy, Must Seek, and Must See which invites travellers to delve deeper into the country’s cultural richness beyond the typical tourist routes.

Kiatphaibool added: “The Middle East is familiar with our iconic offerings, but we’re excited to present new perspectives, including our Thai Craft Destinations concept and Hidden Gem Cities. These showcase authentic local craftsmanship, culture, and cuisine, helping travellers discover the true essence of Thailand.”

TAT’s efforts are underpinned by Thailand’s sustainable tourism strategy, which follows the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) economic model. 

This approach supports low-impact travel, community engagement, and cultural preservation, reinforcing Thailand’s role as a leader in responsible tourism.

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The post ITE Hong Kong 2025 to introduce Youth Travel Zone appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The upcoming ITE Hong Kong 2025 introduces an innovative new area for a new generation of travellers.

The new Youth Travel Zone is expected to help younger people imagine the infinite possibilities of global travel.

The Youth Travel Zone will also feature a Workshop Area and the Zone itself expands the possibility of learning through its proximity with several booths held by a variety of organisations.

At the heart of the zone is the VolTra Market, a venue featuring stalls showcasing the multifaceted connections between travel, culture, creativity, and lifestyle. 

Those handling the stalls come from diverse backgrounds, but share common ground in terms of extensive travel experiences that they will share with participants.

As such, The VolTra Market seeks to deliver an inspiring experience to attendees, one that revolves around the theme The Possibilities of Travel.

VolTra, the organisation behind the market, will also have its own booth next to the Zone, where it will present its programmes, services, and activities in greater detail.

According to VolTra executive director Olivia Ma: “Each stall in the VolTra Market Zone tells a story, not just of where someone has been, but how those experiences sparked creativity, purpose, and action. There, young visitors can be inspired to explore the world not just for leisure, but as changemakers in their communities and beyond.”

Here to inspire

Established in 2009, VolTra is a registered charitable organization that promotes action learning through international voluntary service, experiential travel, community participation, and gamified interaction. 

It designs and organises a wide range of local and international volunteer and educational programs, aiming to broaden participants’ global awareness. 

By inspiring individuals to turn ideas into action and make positive changes in their communities, VolTra works toward the vision of highly participative glocal action.

KS Tong, managing director of ITE organiser TKS, said: “Our warm welcome to the highly inspirational VolTra Market Zone which will show visitors, especially the younger generations, how to get more from traveling! We are excited that some stall owners actually infuse travel inspirations into their products, bringing a bit of their experience into each one.” 

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The post Klook: Philippine travellers hankering to go to Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Klook Philippines presented the results of its 2025 Travel Pulse Study which looked into the different travel behaviours and preferences of Filipinos over the past year today, 29th April.

Study results show a particular shift with regard to dream destinations, as Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam came away as the top three choices for this year.

This year’s study specifically highlighted the likes and preferences of the younger generations, namely Millennials and Gen Z. 

General manager Michello Ho said: “Overall, we’ve seen Filipinos take more chances on travelling in 2024 and definitely aren’t slowing down in 2025. It’s even reached the extent that Millennials and Gen Zs perceive it to be a therapeutic tool. From being considered a love language last year, to being a form of therapy today, it goes to show that travel continues to evolve in different ways to serve each individual’s unique definition of joy.”

Today’s event also featured the launch of an official partnership between Klook Philippines and Hospitality Innovators, Inc. (HII) which stemmed from the results of the study.

Relevant findings

The survey found that 98.5 percent of Filipino respondents have plans to travel domestically as well as nearby locations in the next year, while more than half shared that they plan to travel internationally. 

Klook also noted that, aside from the usual international hotspots like Japan, South Korea and Singapore; Vietnam, Taiwan, and Thailand were emerging in popularity amongst Filipinos.

With regard to travel habits, it was noted that planning in advance remains a fundamental part of the Filipino travel experience, as 39 percent of travellers booked their flights and accommodations up to three months ahead of the trip.

Interestingly, only 27 percent of respondents booked their experience in-destination.

Once at their destination, 63 percent of Filipinos shared that they try out adventurous tours, digital detox, wellness, and meditation retreats, and are aligned with the spirit of trying out new things.

On the other hand, 57 percent take on hidden gem adventures, while 54 percent try out workshops and classes that pique their interest. 

The top consideration Filipinos made when booking their travels revolved around vacationing during times when weather conditions were optimal.

Scheduling around work and school vacations were ranked of equal importance, scoring 29.9 percent,  followed by the affordability of the travel options available to them. 

How social media comes into play

Social media plays a significant role in travel inspiration as 89 percent of Filipinos choose to visit a destination because it was popular on social media.

This was evident to the platform following a 157 percent increase in revenue for Vietnam tourism services and products made on Klook after Klook Kreators started posting about their travels to Vietnam. 

On the topic of Klook’s community of Kreators, the program is set to continue making an impact as Kreator-generated sales have increased by 20 percent in Q1 2025 versus Q4 2024.

Quick content such as photos and short-form videos  are considered the go-to travel guides for Pinoys followed by long-form videos and in-depth blog posts that dive deeper into destination.

Ho explained: “Based on our study, social media has definitely made an impact on the way Filipinos plan their travels, and the motivations that create their itineraries. It’s become a means of digitalization that drives a more intense desire to travel and explore what’s out there.”

While TikTok is only the third most popular application among respondents, the study shows that compared to the regional average, Filipinos are more than two times more likely to engage with TikTok for travel inspiration. 

The rankings haven’t changed much as Facebook remains to lead the list (84%), followed by Youtube (73%), and Instagram places last (63%). 

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The post InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping earns LEED Gold Certification appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The recently renovated InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping has earned LEED Gold Certification, becoming the first hotel in Chiang Mai to be recognised for its sustainability initiatives. 

In its first LEED certification since opening, the hotel achieved a total of 65 points out of 100, earning top marks for water efficiency, innovation and focus on region-specific priorities.

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the world’s most recognised green building rating system and focuses on sustainable living, the health of people and the environment.

A leader in sustainable hospitality, InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping is now part of a select group of eco-friendly and innovative properties around the world that meet the exacting LEED Gold criteria. 

According to general manager Adnan Yucel: “When redesigning the iconic hotel that is now InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping, energy efficiency and sustainability were always at the forefront of our priorities. We are immensely proud that our dedication has been recognised with LEED Gold Certification. By combining the latest in green technology and architecture with deep respect for Thailand’s cultural heritage, we are committed to leading the way in sustainable luxury.”

Staying sustainable 

To reduce water use, the team at InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping relies on 100 percent recycled water for landscape irrigation, and recycled water and water-saving fixtures for indoor systems. 

By choosing native and adaptable plants for its gardens, the hotel has not only contributed to restoring and protecting habitat areas from development and construction activities but has also ensured a significant reduction in water usage.

As part of the efforts to minimise nighttime light pollution, backlight reduction lamps soften exterior glare, while facade and landscape lighting automatically turns off between midnight and 6:00 am.

To reduce energy consumption, solar panels connect directly to the hotel’s electrical system, bypassing battery storage, and cover over three percent of the annual energy cost. 

In addition, high-performance laminated glass has replaced the original vision glass, ensuring enhanced energy efficiency throughout the building.

Finally, to mitigate the effect of tropical heat, light-coloured pavements were chosen for the hardscape areas. 

With over 45 percent of the site dedicated to open spaces, including diverse green zones, social areas and recreational spaces, both guests and team members can enjoy social interactions in calming natural environments.

Sustainable by design

The hotel’s design, highly ranked by LEED for its commitment for innovation, celebrates Lanna culture by including such elements as the Pan Ya-style roof which was inspired by the region’s vernacular architecture.

Such elements form a spiritual link between the modern building and the heritage temple on-site. 

Inside, carefully chosen graphics, textures and materials inspired by Lanna elements blend contemporary geometric structures with a time-honoured cultural identity. 

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The post SriLankan Airlines marks International Pilots’ Day with a thanksgiving celebration appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

SriLankan Airlines celebrated its pilots with a special gathering for International Pilots’ Day on Saturday, 26th April.

The event was held at the airline’s Flight Dispatch Centre at Bandaranaike International Airport. 

Pilots were presented with a special vehicle badge bearing the iconic winged emblem, in appreciation of their enduring dedication and flying spirit that keeps the world connected every day. 

The event also treated guests to pilot-themed cupcakes, and served as an opportunity for SriLankan Airlines staff to reflect on and celebrate the extraordinary effort and sacrifices pilots make in bringing the world closer together.

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The post Megaworld Hotels & Resorts leads the way for Muslim tourism in the Philippines appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Embracing a new standard on Muslim hospitality, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) stands tall as the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT)’s leading partner when it comes to promoting the country to Muslim tourists. 

As of press time, India, Indonesia, and Malaysia continue to be MHR’s largest Muslim source markets, as these collectively contributed to a 40 percent increase in Muslim stays and a 58 percent growth in revenue from January to March 2024. 

Since the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on 6th May 2024 at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, MHR has taken the lead in supporting Muslim tourism growth across its 13 hotels certified as Muslim-friendly by DOT. 

According to MHR managing director Cleofe Abiso: “The milestones we have achieved in Muslim-friendly hospitality would not have been possible without the invaluable partnerships we have built with the Department of Tourism, local governments, and our certification bodies like the Halal International Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Philippines. Together, we share a common vision of positioning the Philippines as a welcoming and inclusive destination for Muslim travelers.”

Abiso added that working in tandem with such partners has enabled MHR to set new standards in the Philippine hospitality sector.

She said: From being the first hotel group to achieve 100% Muslim-Friendly Accommodation accreditation to pioneering projects like Marhaba Boracay. At Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, we believe that when the public and private sectors collaborate with sincerity and purpose, we can truly transform the Philippine tourism landscape for the better.”

One with emergent trends

The rising demand is reflected in broader national tourism trends. 

According to the DOT, the Philippines recorded 630,000 Muslim visitor arrivals in 2024, marking a 23 percent increase compared to 2023. 

Malaysia remains the top source of Muslim tourists, with many visitors traveling in large family groups year-round. 

This proves that the Muslim market is growing with its total population expected to reach 2.3 billion by 2030.

Heartfelt service centred on diversity and inclusivity

MHR is proudly known for its Sampaguita brand of heartfelt Filipino service, creating a journey with the five senses for the guest and showcasing the values deeply-rooted in Filipino culture, such as love, honour, dignity, and healing, which the company instills in every aspect of its operations. 

MHR is also the first and largest Filipino hotel chain to achieve 100 percent accreditation as a Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishment (MFAE) across all its properties, as recognized by the DOT. 

In addition, the group recognizes the significance of Halal dining and ensures that its kitchens at Kingsford Hotel Manila, Grand Westside Hotel, Savoy Hotel Boracay, Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown, and Belmont Hotel Mactan are Halal-certified by the Halal International Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Philippines (HICCIP).

Further expanding its initiatives, MHR in partnership with the DOT and the local government of Malay, Aklan, launched Marhaba Boracay last 10th September.

This project transformed a portion of the pristine 300-meter white sand beach at Cove 2 in Boracay Newcoast into a dedicated Muslim-friendly zone. The area features family-friendly amenities and private spaces designed especially for Muslim women and children.

As more Muslim travelers discover the beauty of the Philippines, MMHR aims to stay  true to its promise of creating heartfelt, meaningful experiences with the Sampaguita.

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The post 100 + international buyers connect with 50 Thai businesses for ‘Amazing Thailand Health & Wellness Trade Meet 2025’ appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) successfully hosted the Amazing Thailand Health & Wellness Trade Meet 2025, welcoming 100 international buyers to Bangkok for a one-day showcase of the country’s health and wellness offerings.

Thailand for wellness

Chiravadee Khunsub, Deputy Governor for International Marketing of Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa, said: “This annual trade event is part of our broader Amazing Thailand Health & Wellness Journey initiative to position Thailand as a quality destination for health and wellness travel. It also supports the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025, reinforcing our focus on high-value, experience-led tourism across sectors like wellness, medical care, and active lifestyles.”

Held at The Ritz-Carlton Bangkok, the event brought together global buyers and over 50 Thai businesses in a setting designed to foster collaboration, business matching, and exchange of ideas.

Buyers came from across key markets—Europe, ASEAN, South Asia, the South Pacific, East Asia, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa—reflecting global interest in Thailand’s wellness sector.

Thailand’s integrative healthcare 

The programme opened with a sector update from TAT and a Wellness Talk on the theme ‘Wellness Hub Thailand’ by Dr. Tanupol Virunhagarun, CEO of BDMS Wellness Clinic and BDMS Wellness Resort, Bangkok Dusit Medical Services Public Company Limited.

In his remarks, Dr. Tanupol highlighted Thailand’s strong potential to become a global wellness hub, citing government policy, world-class medical infrastructure, and rising global demand for preventive health. He emphasised the country’s natural assets, Thai hospitality, and integrative healthcare as key strengths, with BDMS Wellness Clinic aiming to help position Thailand among the world’s top five wellness destinations.

Attendees also engaged in traditional Thai wellness experiences, including making personalised inhalers and healthy snacks and learning holistic self-care rooted in Thai elemental theory.

In the afternoon, 50 Thai businesses presented offerings ranging from integrative medicine and spa treatments to holistic retreats and hospital-based services. Sellers included leading wellness resorts like Chiva-Som, Kamalaya and Sri Panwa; internationally recognised centres such as BDMS Wellness Clinic, RAKxa Integrative Wellness and Bangkok Hospital Pattaya; and a diverse range of high-quality operators nationwide.

Ahead of the event, TAT hosted a familiarisation trip from 21–24 April for buyers from the Americas, Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, South Asia, and the South Pacific. Post-event trips, from 26–29 April, will allow buyers from East Asia and Europe to experience Thai wellness in real-world settings.

Wellness tourists are a high-value segment, spending an average of 100,259 Baht per person per trip. The event is expected to contribute to a shift in Thailand’s tourism structure towards attracting more quality travellers from around the world.

 

 

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The post DOT partners with Emirates to promote the Philippines appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

At the sidelines of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Monday (Apr. 28), the DOT and Emirates Airlines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to promote the Philippines as a premier destination and drive growth of arrivals of travelers in the country.

Promoting Phillippines to Middle East travellers

“The collaboration of the Department of Tourism with Emirates is a vital step in establishing the Philippines as a premier leisure gateway for travellers from the Middle East and Europe, not to mention provide additional air seats and options for the Filipino diaspora in this part of the world who wish to go back and visit our country,” said  Philippine Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, who stood as witness to the signing of the MOU signed by Undersecretary Verna C. Buensuceso of the DOT, and Orhan Abbas, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations, Far East.

Under the memorandum, the DOT and Emirates will come up with plans that would “promote the Philippines in Middle East, Mediterranean, and European markets.”

Increasing Connectivity

The two agencies will also “co-promote each other’s projects and programs through media platforms to ensure wide reach and engagement,” with Emirates “promoting the Philippines throughout Emirates’ network.”

In addition, they will “jointly explore and implement activities to develop and promote tourism in the Philippines, using Emirates’ services for mutual benefit,” as well as “work on expanding flight routes and frequencies to key destinations in coordination with other government agencies and relevant sectors.”

“By creating a strategic framework for joint marketing and advertising initiatives, we aim to significantly boost visitor traffic from Emirates’ extensive global network. This collaboration between the Department of Tourism and Emirates not only strengthens our tourism sector but also fosters deeper cultural ties between our regions,” enthused the Tourism Chief.

For his part, Abbas said Emirates’ partnership with the DOT proved the capability of the Philippines to attract more travellers from across the globe. He said, “Emirates began serving the Philippines nearly 35 years ago, making it one of the longest-served destinations across our entire global network. Our continued partnership reflects the strength and popularity of this Southeast Asian destination – not only for leisure travellers but also businesses and entrepreneurs.”

Dubai-based Emirates is the world’s largest international airline. Its global network spans 140 destinations across six continents. The airline serves the Philippines with 28 weekly flights to Manila, Cebu, and Clark, equivalent to 22,700 weekly seats to and from Dubai.

It also launched in November 2024 its Emirates World retail store concept in Manila, “introducing a fully immersive experience for Filipino customers,” according to the airline.

As of April 28, 2025, the Philippines received a total of 21,576 travellers from the UAE, according to statistics from the DOT’s Statistics, Economic Analysis, and Information Management Division.

 

 

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The post Marriott International to acquire citizenM appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Marriott International announced it has reached an agreement to acquire the lifestyle brand citizenM on Monday, 28th April.

citizenM is a company that specialises in unique and innovative offerings in the select-service segment. 

The impending acquisition is seen to be a great boost to the ongoing global expansion of Marriott’s select-service and lifestyle lodging offerings.

It is likewise seen as timely, given that Marriott continues to focus on expanding its portfolio to provide even more exciting options for guests and Marriott Bonvoy members around the world.

Marriott International president and chief executive Anthony Capuano said of the matter: “As we continue to drive best-in-class experiences for travelers, today’s announcement builds upon Marriott’s commitment to enhance options for guests and Marriott Bonvoy members. We are thrilled to add citizenM as a unique, differentiated offering to our select-service brand portfolio as we continue to strengthen Marriott’s foothold in this valuable market segment around the world. Marriott has a proven track record of growing acquired brands significantly by leveraging our global development ecosystem, the benefits of our industry-leading affiliation cost structure, and the power of our award-winning Marriott Bonvoy loyalty platform.”

citizenM founder and chair Rattan Chadha said: “We are very excited about our agreement with Marriott and look forward to this pivotal next step for our future growth. I envisage this relationship will greatly enhance citizenM’s global reach and brand impact. Marriott as an organization shares our values and culture, and I am confident in their deep commitment in continuing our brand’s DNA into the future.”

Lennert de Jong, CEO of citizenM added: “I am excited about citizenM’s future with Marriott International. citizenM was created for frequent travelers, and Marriott’s distribution capabilities will allow us to welcome new modern guests. With the strength of Marriott’s development engine, we look forward to the prospect of many additional citizenM properties in new destinations around the world. We will continue to own our real estate and operate all our hotels. This relationship will allow us to work together to maximise returns.”

What happens next?

At closing of the transaction, Marriott will pay $355 million to acquire the brand and related intellectual property. 

Following closing, the citizenM portfolio will become part of Marriott’s system, with the hotels owned and leased by the seller subject to new long-term franchise agreements with Marriott. 

Stabilised fees for the open and under construction pipeline portfolio are anticipated to be approximately $30 million annually. 

The seller may also receive earn-out payments up to $110 million that are based on the future growth of the brand over a specified, multi-year timeframe. 

These payments would not begin until the fourth year following closing.

Also,  closing of the transaction is subject to various customary conditions, including US regulatory approval.

Assuming closing of the transaction in 2025, Marriott now expects full year 2025 net rooms growth to approach 5 percent.

Morgan Stanley & Co International plc and Eastdil Secured acted as financial advisors to the seller in this transaction.

A brand known for service and smart tech

The citizenM brand is known for its genuine service, tech-savvy in-hotel experience, highly efficient use of space, and focus on art and design. 

Founded in 2008, this hospitality firm caters to a growing demographic of value-conscious travelers looking for technology-driven accommodations with features like smart in-room design, indoor and outdoor common spaces featuring immersive artwork and local artifacts, comfortably appointed living rooms that serve as collaborative workspaces, creative meeting rooms, grab-and-go food and beverage options, and lively rooftop decks.

The citizenM global portfolio currently consists of 36 open hotels, comprising 8,544 rooms, across more than 20 cities spanning the United States, Europe, and the Asia Pacific, including gateway cities like New York, London, Paris, and Rome. 

The brand’s current pipeline includes three under-construction hotels totaling over 600 rooms that are anticipated to open by mid-2026, with the prospect of significant additional growth across Marriott’s global regions over the next decade.

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