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IWTA Roundtable – Women leaders push boundaries despite structural, personal barriers

 

IWTA Roundtable with Michaela Connor: Sumi Soorian, Natcha Charoenwai & Dr. Nisha Abu Bakar – Women Shaping Tourism

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you know of any female leaders or up and coming superstars in the Travel and Hospitality industry you would like to hear their story, please visit our page and complete a nomination form!

 

NOMINATE SOMEONE

 

NOMINATE YOURSELF

 

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The post Sports Events Fueled £2.2 Billion in UK Spending from April to October: Data Appeal appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

An exclusive report by The Data Appeal Company, part of Almawave Group, reveals that between April and October, sports events in the UK generated over £2.2 billion in spending, spanning more than 3,200 events and attracting nearly 25.6 million attendees.

The Data Appeal Company – Almawave Group, a leader in tourism data analysis, has unveiled a comprehensive report that explores the broader impact of major UK sporting events on local economies, tourism, and spending. The report Wimbledon and Beyond: A Data Snapshot of UK Sports Events and Their Impact, offers a deep dive into how iconic events like Wimbledon, the British Grand Prix, and the London Marathon drive visitor spending, accommodation trends, and overall economic growth across the UK.

The UK’s reputation as a global sports hub is undeniable, but the financial impact of its sporting events is equally significant. With the sports events sector alone contributing almost £9.753 billion to the UK economy in 2024 according to UK Events Report, Data Appeal’s study uncovers the effects of these events on local economies through various lenses, including visitor spending, accommodation trends and sentiment and popularity.

“These events offer cities a unique opportunity to drive short-term revenue and long-term visibility,” says Mirko Lalli, CEO & Founder of Data Appeal. “But capturing that value requires understanding not just attendance, but how people travel, spend, and experience the destination. For destinations and organisers, the insight is strategic: curating the right mix of events—those that attract high-value audiences or generate broad public engagement—can be far more effective than simply aiming for crowd numbers.”

Top events in the UK: Festivals vs. Sports Events

Data reveals a clear distinction between festivals and sports events in terms of attendance and economic impact. While festivals like the Notting Hill Carnival and Pride in London draw huge crowds, sports events such as Wimbledon and the British Grand Prix generate significantly higher spending per visitor:

• Wimbledon is predicted to generate over £224 million from 526,000 attendees, with significant contributions from hospitality services.
• The British Grand Prix also leads in total spending, with £188 million forecasted.
• The Gemini Boat Race ranks as a high-spend event, despite lower attendance, due to its exclusive audience.

 

Top-Spender sports events and their economic impact
Between April and October 2025, Wimbledon leads UK sports events in predicted spending with £224.8M, followed by the British Grand Prix (£188.6M) and the Gemini Boat Race (£175.2M)—the latter notable for its high per capita spend despite a smaller crowd. The Open Championship (£82.1M in hospitality) and the TCS London Marathon (£60M in F&B) round out the top five, with the marathon drawing the largest attendance (800,000) and broader city-wide impact. Overall, elite events drive higher per-person spend, while mass events boost urban tourism and public engagement.

 

Flight data and regional impact
Despite a slight drop in arrivals the week before Wimbledon, the event still saw a net increase of over 3 million travellers compared to the same period in 2024, highlighting its strong global appeal and the behaviour of high-spending, late-booking audiences. Similarly, the British Grand Prix is expected to triple arrivals into Birmingham on July 4, boosted by overlapping U.S. holiday travel. Events in remote areas like Derry also show sharp international spikes when backed by the right infrastructure and visibility. In contrast, events like the Gemini Boat Race and London Marathon show limited air travel impact, likely due to their local reach and reliance on domestic ground transport—still valuable for regional planning and mobility strategies.

Accommodation trends: Understanding OTA saturation
Accommodation data shows key contrasts in booking behaviour and pricing around major events: for instance, by March 2025, OTA saturation for Wimbledon was already high, yet rates remained unexpectedly low—likely due to high-spending travellers booking via private channels, corporate packages, or exclusive clubs. This suggests that traditional OTA data may underestimate true economic impact. Events like The Open Championship boost OTA rates and saturation even in remote areas, benefiting surrounding towns if infrastructure and marketing align. In contrast, the London Marathon contributes to a steady seasonal uplift in rates, offering cities the chance to build loyalty around predictable demand. Lack of OTA data for events like the British Grand Prix or Gemini Boat Race may signal blind spots in regional markets, underlining the need for broader data partnerships.

Sentiment and public perception: A mixed bag
The area of Wimbledon saw a notable sentiment increase from 85 to 92, reflecting its strong emotional and reputational impact driven by world-class competition, tradition, and premium experiences—positioning it as a cultural highlight of the UK summer.

 

In contrast, events like the London Marathon, Boat Race, and British Grand Prix showed no measurable sentiment uplift, which, while less headline-grabbing, still represents a success given the operational pressures high-traffic events can bring. These results underline that positive sentiment hinges not just on attendance, but on curated experiences and effective infrastructure, highlighting the need to balance crowd appeal with community well-being and event quality.

In conclusion, the data underscores how top-tier sporting events are not only cultural milestones but also powerful economic engines, driving multimillion-pound impacts across travel, accommodation, and hospitality sectors. By combining granular insights—from flight patterns to booking behaviours and sentiment trends—the report offers destination managers, event organisers, and tourism boards a clear roadmap to maximise both revenue and resident satisfaction. With strategic planning and data-led decisions, cities can turn peak moments into long-term value. 

 

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The post Averill Hospitality unveils plans to remodel, rename, and rebrand The Pine Lodge as ‘Whitefish Riverfront Hotel’ appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Whitefish-based, family-owned Averill Hospitality, whose portfolio already includes two of Whitefish’s most celebrated properties – The Lodge at Whitefish Lake and The Firebrand Hotel – has announced plans to remodel, rename, and rebrand The Pine Lodge as Whitefish Riverfront Hotel. 

Phase one of renovations is already underway at the property, which Averill Hospitality acquired in October 2024. These upgrades are expected to be completed in June, ahead of the busy summer travel season.

As the new name implies, Whitefish Riverfront Hotel boasts an ideal location along the Whitefish River, just blocks from downtown and conveniently located for accessing Glacier National Park, Whitefish Lake, and Whitefish Mountain Resort. Bringing together modern comfort and the authentic charm of the Montana mountain lifestyle, Whitefish Riverfront Hotel is guided by the vision of affordable luxury. The rebranded hotel will still offer guests that deep connection to Whitefish’s natural beauty, culture, and welcoming spirit with an elevated twist.

“The heart and spirit of the property will remain at the core, with thoughtful, modern upgrades and new amenities that enhance the sense of community and place our

guests have come to love,” says Brian Averill, President of Averill Hospitality. “The first phase of improvements began in March and is on track for completion by mid-June. Phase two will commence this fall. It’s an exciting time, and we look forward to welcoming guests to a refreshed and elevated experience at this popular property.”

Working in collaboration with award-winning Colorado-based OZ Architecture – whose notable projects include the Telluride Four Seasons, Grand Hyatt Deer Valley, and The Stockman Hotel in Steamboat Springs – the transformation touches nearly every aspect of the guest experience while maintaining the warm, approachable personality that has defined The Pine Lodge for years.

Among the notable changes guests can expect to enjoy at Whitefish Riverfront Hotel include:

• Lobby Expansion & Modernization: The hotel lobby has been completely reimagined as a vibrant social hub, with a newly added wine and beer bar, expanded space, on-the-go food and beverage offerings, and retail.
• Exterior Facelift & Signage: A refreshed arrival experience, including exterior, porte cochère, and improved signage, will enhance the guest experience and ensure a seamless arrival process.
• Upgraded Game Room: Families and friends can gather in a refreshed space featuring fun for all ages, including a pool table, video games, and a side room for small group seating.
• Hallway Refresh: The freshly painted hallways offer a cleaner, more modern aesthetic.
• Fitness Center Expansion: A larger, better-equipped fitness center allows guests to stay active even on rest days with added cardio, plyometric equipment, weights, televisions, and expanded space.
• Breakfast Experience: The lobby expansion will allow us to offer guests improved seating along with hot breakfast options as part of the lodging experience.
• Gear Room: Fully equipped to support enthusiasts of Whitefish’s year-round outdoor recreation with gear for a variety of adventures.

While new enhancements are being introduced, the property continues to offer its signature amenities, including convenient ski storage and ski shuttle service to Whitefish Mountain Resort. Summer brings even more ways to explore, with complimentary town bikes, kayaks, and paddleboards for guests as well as e-bikes available for rent.

Whether guests are visiting Whitefish for the slopes, trails, or town charm, Whitefish Riverfront Hotel will be ready to welcome them—with more comfort, style, and soul than ever before.

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The post Preferred Hotels & Resorts Announces 2025 GIFTTS Pineapple Award Winners at 2025 Global Conference in Singapore appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Preferred Hotels & Resorts announces Rosen Hotels & Resorts, Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa, Kasbah Tamadot, and Inn by The Sea as the winners of the 2025 GIFTTS Pineapple Awards. As a key event of the 2025 Preferred Global Conference, The GIFTTS Pineapple awards ceremony took place during a celebratory dinner at Gardens by the Bay, the iconic landmark of Singapore and celebrates these hotels that showcase an outstanding commitment to philanthropy, sustainability, and social responsibility.

“We are incredibly proud to recognize those who are setting the standard in our industry through their dedication to purpose-driven leadership and impactful community engagement,” said Lindsey Ueberroth, Chief Executive Officer at Preferred Hotels & Resorts. “These trailblazers continually inspire us with their commitment to initiatives that create lasting value for both people and the planet. The GIFTTS program aligns closely with our Climate Action Plan, and together with our exceptional hoteliers around the world, we are advancing meaningful progress toward a more sustainable future.”

Every year Preferred Hotels & Resorts recognizes member hotels that take the meaning of genuine hospitality beyond the lobby and into their communities by showcasing an outstanding commitment to philanthropy, sustainability, and social responsibility as part of its GIFTTS program, which stands for Great Initiatives for Today’s (Tomorrow’s) Society. With nearly 100 property submissions across four categories, the 2025 winners are as follows:

• Philanthropy: Kasbah Tamadot (Asni, Morocco), Legend Collection
• Sustainability: Inn by The Sea(Cape Elizabeth, United Sates), L.V.X. Collection & member of Beyond Green
• Overall Hotel: ErinvaleEstate Hotel & Spa (Cape Town, South Africa), L.V.X. Collection
• Overall Corporate Entity: Rosen Hotels & Resorts, including Rosen Plaza Hotel(Lifestyle Collection), Rosen Shingle Creek (Lifestyle Collection), Rosen Centre Hotel (Lifestyle Collection).

 

 

 

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The post Delta to introduce booking experiences tailored to travellers needs appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

 

 

Starting 15 May, customers shopping and booking tickets for travel on or after 1 Oct will start to see a new shopping experience when on Delta.com and in the Fly Delta app – one that lets them shop for and select the travel that best suits their needs and preferences. 

As Delta looks ahead to the next 100 years of flight, they are updating the way you shop for flights – offering more choice and greater clarity, aiming to provide travel experiences that can be customized to your personal preferences.

As part of this evolution, they’re refreshing their product names and introducing booking experiences tailored to your travel needs and priorities.

What’s changing?  

Starting 15 May for flights on or after 1 Oct, they’ll begin offering a combination of products and experiences that give you more choice and control over your journey than ever before.

Delta’s seat products will now be classified into the following categories: Delta Main (formerly Main Cabin), Delta Comfort (formerly Delta Comfort+®), Delta First (Formerly First Class), Delta Premium Select, and Delta One.

You’ll no longer see “Basic Economy” – instead, that base-level fare class has been folded into Delta Main, which now includes three experience options allowing you to better tailor your journey: Basic, Classic and Extra.

• Delta Main Basic (formerly Basic Economy): Their lowest-cost fare is the perfect entry point to travel with Delta. Delta Main Basic offers you the essentials, just as a Basic Economy ticket did before. You’ll enjoy the core Delta experience, with restrictions: seat assigned after check-in, Zone 8 boarding priority, cancellation with a fee for a partial eCredit, no mileage or MQDs earned for your trip, and no entry into Delta Sky Clubs (even with credentials).
• Delta Main Classic: For customers who want a little more – think MQD earn, 5 miles per dollar (excluding taxes), eCredit if you cancel, better boarding priority, same-day standby options, added flexibility to choose your seat – a Delta Main Classic option might be more appealing.
• Delta Main Extra: And customers who want even more – even higher boarding priority, base mileage earn at 7 miles per dollar (excluding taxes/fees), easy refundability back to your form of payment, plus same-day standby, as with Classic – can unlock those benefits with a Delta Main Extra fare.

All other seat products will include “Classic” and “Extra” tiered experiences for greater choice and more customization. (In some markets, customers may be offered “Refundable” options in place of “Extra,” which will allow flexibility and trip cancellation for a refund at any time prior to departure.*)

The new products and experiences are available via a modernized shopping layout on Delta.com and Fly Delta app—one that will allow you to see key fare attributes at a glance and compare experiences across fares.

“As we listen and learn about what our customers want when it comes to their travel, we know that clarity and choice are paramount,” said Eric Phillips, S.V.P. and Chief Digital Officer. “Our reimagined shopping experience gives customers more options and flexibility to pick the travel experience that works best for them, and a full picture of all the benefits of flying with Delta.”

Curate your journey based on what matters most to you  

Travel needs and tastes evolve over time, or even from trip to trip. Travel priorities on a business trip might be different than your priorities for your family vacation. With Delta’s new booking experience, you can tailor your experience to your budget and priorities, getting the value that works for you.

 

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The post Brad Sheehan appointed as new S.V.P. of Corporate Safety, Security and Compliance in Delta Air Lines appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Delta Air Lines announces the appointment of Brad Sheehan as the new S.V.P. of Corporate Safety, Security and Compliance, effective 2^nd June. Brad is a seasoned aviation safety leader with over 25 years of industry experience. He will succeed David Garrison, who has decided to retire after an illustrious 34-year career at Delta.

Brad currently serves as V.P. of Flight Operations, and he flies as an A320 captain. His extensive background overseeing training, technology and flight standards also includes leading Delta’s Flight Safety team.  During his tenure, he has furthered our safety culture and worked collaboratively with industry partners and the FAA to bring about national airspace improvements.

Before joining Delta, Brad held senior leadership roles in operations and safety at several other airlines. His expertise and dedication to safety have earned him appointments to five FAA-required positions, including Director of Operations and Director of Safety at other airlines and his current role as System Chief Pilot for Delta. In his new role, Brad will serve as the FAA-designated Director of Safety, advising Delta leadership and liaising with regulators on all safety matters.

“In 2017, Delta became one of the first airlines to have our safety management system approved by the FAA,” said Delta’s E.V.P. and Chief of Operations John Laughter. “Brad has been a key leader in turning that system into a culture here at Delta.”

Brad graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Auburn University and holds several certificates in business management from Emory University’s Goizueta Business School.

David Garrison will retire at the end of June following a one-month transition period. He has been a cornerstone of Delta’s safety initiatives throughout his career, leading efforts to lower injury rates, secure significant operational safety investments and foster Delta’s safety culture.

 

 

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The post Philippines open to possibility of One ASEAN Visa appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) strongly supports the proposed unified ASEAN visa.

Tourism secretary Christina Frasco pointed out that a single regional visa would help position ASEAN as a key global tourism destination.

This proposed visa will be modelled after the current Schengen Visa of the European Union and the joint visa of the Gulf Cooperation Council in the Middle East.

In recent months, the proposal has gained support from ASEAN member-states.

“A destination for every dream”

Frasco remarked in a statement released yesterday, 18th May, that ASEAN tourism’s overarching tagline is “a destination for every dream,’ and that a unified visa would help make the dream come true for many global travellers.

Frasco said: “To be able to unify the ASEAN as a destination is an aspiration for us in the Philippines.”

The tourism secretary added that neighbouring countries have likewise expressed strong interest in carrying the proposal.

She said: “We are very hopeful that the subject matter will again come up as the Philippines hosts the ASEAN next year.”

Frasco also pointed out the potential of enhanced regional cooperation despite existing competition among ASEAN countries.

As she puts it: “Competition is always very healthy, but collaboration is healthier in a sense that ASEAN coming together to work as a force for good for the world would really benefit all of our countries.”

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The post DOT Chief invites digital nomads to The Philippines appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Philippines is positioning itself as an appealing destination for long-stay travellers and digital nomads, emphasizing not just affordable living but also high-value cultural experiences and exceptional hospitality.

Representing the Philippine government, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco was among the preeminent lineup of speakers in this year’s Skift Asia Forum 2025 held in Bangkok, Thailand

To differentiate itself in a competitive market with countries like Thailand and Indonesia, Secretary Frasco highlighted the Philippines’ ease of travel, English-speaking population, and strong infrastructure for digital nomads.

To recall, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. signed Executive Order 86 in April 2025, authorizing the issuance of the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV). This initiative is designed to attract long-term travelers seeking immersive cultural experiences while working remotely in the scenic islands of the Philippines.

“Long-stay travelers from all over the world work in paradise, where the value proposition that the country offers is not just a low cost stay, but one that is of high value, that provides cultural and immersive experiences, a population that is unparalleled in terms of its hospitality, warmth, and proficiency for English, as well as a host of islands that are ready to have these digital nomads enjoy their experience while working and traveling across the Philippines,” said Secretary Frasco.

“Our focus as well is really to be able to have a strong infrastructure in terms of assisting our digital nomads in the country. And so we work very closely with our regional offices as well as our local government units across the country to make sure that tourism safety is of top priority, as well as opportunities to have cultural experiences in the country are present through our tourism circuits,” added the tourism chief.

The government is focusing on safety, cultural engagement, and support for longer stays through initiatives like the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa.

“We’re also laying the groundwork to ensure that, longer term stay in the Philippines is possible. This has already been institutionalized by way of our Philippine Retirement Authority, which offers a Special (Resident) Retiree’s Visa for those that may wish to stay beyond the one year that is allowed in the digital nomad space,” added Frasco.

The Philippines, Secretary Frasco noted, aims to attract respectful tourists who contribute positively to local communities through sustainable tourism practices.

“We’ve heard of world-renowned Philippine islands like Palawan—which has just been declared as the World’s Best Island, Boracay, Siargao, just to name a few, where we are welcoming people who seek to have immersive adventures as well as cultural experiences while they’re able to work, and the vision for the country is to be able to attract travelers that are quality in terms of their respect for our framework towards sustainable tourism as well as travelers that are able to benefit our communities by way of higher tourism spendings as well as repeat visits. So, overall, our approach is really to be able to ensure that the Philippines develops in a manner that provides unforgettable, immersive, and cultural experiences but also safeguards the longevity of our destinations,” she added.

Frasco stressed that the Marcos Administration is working to improve digital connectivity across the country by partnering with the Department of Information and Communications Technology to enhance Wi-Fi services in over 90 destinations.

Held annually, the Skift Asia Forum convenes the travel industry’s top executives, decision-makers, and thought leaders to explore the most pressing developments shaping the sector through keynote talks, exclusive panels, and high-level networking opportunities. It serves as a critical touchpoint for those driving transformation across airlines, hospitality, tourism boards, tech platforms, and more.

Other distinguished speakers include Laura Houldsworth, Managing Director and Vice President, Asia Pacific of Booking.com; Dave Stephenson, Chief Business Officer of Airbnb; Nadia Omer, CEO of AirAsia MOVE; Boon Sian Chai, Managing Director and Vice President, International Markets of Trip.com Group; Wilfred Fan, Chief Commercial Officer of Klook; Bill Bensley, Creative Director and Founder of BENSLEY; Fazal Bahardeen, Founder and CEO of HalalTrip/CrescentRating; Hannah Pearson, Director of Pear Anderson; Chai Eamsiri, CEO of Thai Airways;  Wong Kar Ling, Chief Strategy Officer and Managing Director Southeast Asia of The Ascott Limited; Song Hoi-see, CEO and Founder of Plaza Premium Group; Deepak Ohri, CEO and Founder of Luxury Atelier Maison Happiness (LAMH), and Gary Bowerman, Asia-based Travel Economist.

 

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The post Raffles Sentosa Singapore: Where every dining occasion is a celebration appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Raffles Sentosa Singapore, the country’s first all-villa resort, sets a new standard of destination dining on Sentosa island. Nestled within 100,000 square metres of lush tropical gardens, the resort is home to five distinctive dining venues, each helmed by chefs with Michelin credentials and elevated by the legendary Raffles service.

“We’ve crafted every dining moment to be an experience of discovery and delight,” said Bjoern Alexander, Cluster Director of Culinary at Raffles Sentosa Singapore and Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa. “Our aim is to blend the Raffles legacy with contemporary dining excellence, offering guests not only exceptional cuisine but also a personal connection to every meal.”

Whether dining al fresco, enjoying afternoon tea, or savouring a private meal in their villa, guests are invited to experience the art of celebration through exceptional cuisine, warm hospitality, and an unforgettable setting.

A Culinary Journey Rooted in Craft and Connection

At the heart of Raffles Sentosa Singapore’s culinary offering is Empire Grill, the resort’s signature modern Italian restaurant led by Chef Bjoern. Inspired by the spirit of conviviality and the rustic warmth of Tuscan cuisine, Empire Grill reimagines classic dishes with a refined, contemporary touch, complemented by a fine selection of premium wines.

Overlooking the resort’s tranquil pool and tropical gardens, the restaurant evokes a sense of laid-back elegance, blending nostalgic elements with modern culinary artistry. Here, wood-fired meats and seafood are grilled to perfection, while select dishes are theatrically finished tableside—offering guests an intimate, interactive dining experience.

“Empire Grill is about more than just flavour—it’s about connection,” said Chef Bjoern. “We bring a sense of theatre back to the table, with dishes prepared or finished right before our guests’ eyes. It’s a personal experience, and one that celebrates the timeless art of hospitality.”

This attention to craft extends beyond technique to the careful sourcing of ingredients. From sustainably caught seafood to herbs grown in the resort’s own gardens, every element is selected with care, echoing the resort’s commitment to provenance and sustainability.

Timeless Techniques, Refined Flavours

At Royal China, Executive Chinese Chef Ling Heng Yao presents a sophisticated interpretation of Cantonese cuisine, blending craftsmanship with subtle modern touches. Set in a dining room framed by floor-to-ceiling windows and surrounded by lush greenery, the experience is at once elegant and rooted in nature.

Known for his meticulous technique and deep understanding of Cantonese culinary philosophy, Chef Ling believes that great cuisine begins with the ingredients. “Cantonese cooking is about balance and restraint,” he shares. “It’s about understanding the feel of each ingredient, how it transforms with heat, and how every element plays its part in harmony. While I honour tradition, I also like to introduce moments of surprise—just enough creativity to let the ingredients shine.”

His menu reflects this philosophy. From delicate dim sum to signature dishes like the Peking Duck and double-boiled soups, each plate is a celebration of depth, texture, and purity of flavour. Locally and sustainably sourced produce is used wherever possible, continuing the resort’s commitment to conscious dining. These are complemented by a fine selection of premium wines and a wide range of specialty teas which have been curated to pair with the food. A choice of intimate private dining rooms makes Royal China a perfect setting for family celebrations, milestone moments, or discreet corporate entertaining.

An Exclusive Omakase Experience

For those seeking a more contemplative culinary journey, IYASAKA by Hashida offers a refined omakase experience led by celebrated Chef Kenjiro “Hatch” Hashida. Inspired by the spirited cheer heard at festive gatherings in Japan, IYASAKA by Hashida is a toast to joy, prosperity, and the enduring art of Japanese dining.

With only 12 seats available per service, the restaurant offers an exceptionally intimate setting, one that celebrates culture, craftsmanship, tradition and connection. Each dish, whether sushi crafted with artistry or seasonal delicacies prepared with reverence, invites guests to savour the moment. Thoughtful design, personalised service, and warm hospitality make IYASAKA by Hashida one of the most sought-after Japanese dining experiences on Sentosa Island.

Lounges with Character and Charm

Situated within the resort’s arrivals hall, Raffles Room is an inviting space that reflects the brand’s heritage of elegant gatherings. Bathed in natural light and overlooking a magnificent heritage ficus tree, it offers a serene setting for the signature Raffles Afternoon Tea. A thoughtfully curated wine selection and light bites complement the experience, perfect for leisurely afternoons or intimate get-togethers.

Just across the room, concealed behind mural-panelled doors, the Chairman’s Room is a sophisticated hideaway reminiscent of a vintage speakeasy. Richly hued wood panelling, antique mirrors, and plush velvet seating set the tone for quiet conversation or a nightcap. Here, guests can discover a refined collection of rare whiskies, aged cognacs, and fine wines—alongside the Sentosa Sling, the resort’s sustainable reimagination of the original Singapore Sling, crafted with upcycled watermelon skins and lemon leaves from the resort’s garden.

In-Villa and Private Dining

As a secluded all-villa resort, with villas starting from 211 sqm, each featuring its own pool and terrace, private in-villa dining is one of the resort’s standout culinary experiences. Each private dining occasion is a bespoke experience, crafted in consultation with the resort’s culinary team, sommelier and personal butler to ensure a truly memorable, one of-a-kind dining experience, often with surprise elements, and available around the clock.

In addition to the private villas, the resort’s restaurants also offer refined private dining rooms, including the luxurious onyx chef’s table at Empire Grill, which seats up to eight diners, or the elegant round-table dining room at Royal China, inlaid with lavish peacock feathers on gold leaf.

 

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The post Vietnam is the most affordable SE Asia destination for backpackers: Omio appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

With Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam being among the top most popular countries for travellers in South-East Asia, global travel booking company Omio has ranked which one is the most affordable for backpackers.

By analysing a number of different factors for each country, including cheapest accommodation price, visa costs, food prices and travel prices, Omio has been able to reveal which South-East Asia country is the most affordable for travellers by then scoring each country from best to worse for each factor. The overall scores were then added up to provide a score out of 40 to create a final ranking system.

Vietnam is the most affordable South-East Asia Country for backpackers.

According to the data, the most affordable South-East Asia destination is Vietnam, scoring 40 out 45 across all factors. Offering travellers the cheapest beer (72p) and soft drink prices (36p) out of the five countries, Vietnam also offers cheap travel within the country, with the average one-way public transport ticket costing as little as 23p and cheap accommodation prices, starting from as little as a pound.

In second place is Indonesia, which actually ranked the most affordable for meal costs, coming in at an average of £1.37 for a meal at an inexpensive restaurant. It was also the cheapest place for those looking to embark on affordable leisure activities whilst they’re on their travels, which includes looking at gym prices, cinema ticket costs and tennis court rental prices.

Thailand came in third place respectively, followed by Malaysia and Singapore, with the latter scoring the highest prices across all categories compared to the other four countries.

More specifically, Singapore was significantly more pricey for accommodation, with the cheapest price for a one night stay coming in at an average of £51, compared to the super low prices of £1 for the top three countries.

However, whilst Singapore and Malaysia came out as more expensive than Vietnam, Indonesia and Thailand, these two countries actually enable travellers to stay for 3 months before needing to purchase a visa, the longest period than any other of the South-East Asia countries analysed.

 

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