The post Sabah: Asia’s new paradise for luxury and romance in Malaysia appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Malaysian state of Sabah, long celebrated for its natural wonders, now takes centre stage as Asia’s new paradise for luxury and romantic holidays. With pristine islands, golden beaches, rainforest hideaways, world-class resorts, and rich cultures, the Malaysian state is fast emerging as a leading destination for discerning travellers seeking indulgence and intimacy. More recently, Indian visitor arrivals to the state recorded an impressive 60% growth in 2024.

The last year’s growth has been backed up by another robust 40% growth in Indian visitor arrivals to Sabah for the January-July 2025 period compared to the same period last year. Sabah has received a total of 5,996 Indian visitors in the first seven months of 2025. At the forefront of Asia’s high-end travel market, Sabah is today harnessing its natural assets with exceptional hospitality and curated experiences for the growth in Indian as well as global visitors.

Sabah is redefining luxury travel, offering not just elegant resorts and fine dining but also space, peace, and meaningful experiences. Travellers can choose from private villas by the sea, five-star resorts with world-class service, or eco-lodges that blend comfort with nature. What sets Sabah apart is its fusion of modern hospitality with cultural and natural treasures. From wellness retreats using local herbs to chefs blending global flavours with local ingredients to traditions adding warmth to every stay, Sabah offers a luxury experience that feels both distinct and authentic.

Thanks to its growing reputation as a premier luxury‐destination, Sabah recorded 3.14 million tourist arrivals in 2024—surpassing its target of 3 million—and generated RM 7.28 billion in tourism receipts.  The state is now aiming for 3.5 million arrivals in 2025.

Luxury and Romance in Sabah

Sabah sets the stage for unforgettable journeys with experiences that blend indulgence, nature, and romance. Couples can unwind in exclusive oceanfront villas or private island resorts, sail together on sunset cruises, or share intimate candlelit dinners under starlit skies. For those seeking a touch of adventure, diving into Sabah’s crystal-clear waters reveals vibrant coral reefs, while treks to hidden waterfalls or wildlife encounters in lush rainforests turn exploration into shared memories.

Highlighting Sabah’s unique diversity, Julinus Jeffery Jimit, CEO of Sabah Tourism Board, said: “Sabah offers a unique ‘mountain high to ocean deep’ experience that perfectly matches Indian travelers’ preferences for diverse, culturally rich destinations. The destination features Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s highest peak at 4,095 meters and UNESCO World Heritage Site, alongside Kinabalu Park – one of only three places globally with three UNESCO designations. For marine enthusiasts, Sipadan Island ranks among the world’s top 10 dive sites, offering encounters with thousands of barracuda, sea turtles, and pristine coral reefs,”

Exclusivity with Authenticity

As a premium luxury destination, what sets Sabah apart is its ability to blend exclusivity with authenticity. Here, untouched landscapes meet five-star comforts, and age-old traditions enrich the modern luxury experience. From private island retreats to bespoke adventure tours and destination weddings, Sabah is redefining the idea of romantic luxury in Asia.

Couples and high-end travellers can indulge in secluded beachfront villas, private island resorts, and rainforest retreats while still being immersed in culture and nature, thus enjoying five-star exclusivity without losing touch with the destination’s soul. With its traditional warm hospitality, encounters with indigenous communities, and nature-based adventures, Sabah is carving a niche in the global luxury market. The state’s growing appeal as a yachting destination, supported by improving infrastructure, further adds to its allure.

Seamless Connectivity

Located in the northern part of the Borneo Island in East Malaysia, Sabah, the hidden jewel of Borneo, is well connected to the rest of Malaysia and the wider world. The state’s Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) is Malaysia’s second busiest airport, operating regular direct flights from major Asian hubs.

For Indian travellers, seamless connections are available via Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Bangkok. This growing connectivity is a key driver in positioning Sabah as a rising destination of choice for international visitors seeking an exotic yet easily reachable escape.

 

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The post Melbourne retains the first rank in APAC in global sustainability rankings appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Melbourne has achieved number one ranking in Australia and in the Asia Pacific in the prestigious Global Destination Sustainability (GDS) Index rankings for 2025. The city also earned first position in the Metropolis and Mega Cities category.  The GDS Index is the world’s leading sustainability benchmarking and performance improvement program for tourism and events destinations, evaluating cities across four key pillars: environmental strategy and performance, social sustainability, destination management, and supplier engagement.

Melbourne rose to 11th place worldwide, from 24th place in 2024, cementing its place as a global leader in sustainability and its commitment to continuous improvement across the visitor economy. The city’s index score improved from 76.6 per cent in 2024 to 83 per cent in 2025, the most significant improvement in the past seven years.

A key element in Melbourne’s success was the strong performance of suppliers across the city who play a critical role in delivering environmentally and socially responsible events. Organisations, including hotels and event venues, demonstrated a commitment to sustainable practices that elevated Melbourne’s ability to host world-class events with minimal environmental impact.

The strength of Team Melbourne and the city’s collaborative approach to event delivery also played a crucial role in the result. Melbourne Convention Bureau’s strong partnerships with the City of Melbourne and the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), as well as the support of the Victorian government, allow us to embed sustainability into the way we attract, plan and deliver business events, creating world-class events that leave a positive legacy. The City of Melbourne collaborated closely with MCB on our submission, ensuring our efforts in being considered a sustainable event destination were recognised on the world stage.

The City of Melbourne is a global leader in climate action and sustainability, with a range of policies and programs designed to address these pressing problems. MCEC is the first centre in the world to be awarded the 6-Star Green Star rating for its innovative environmental design and operational features, and the centre has been awarded Platinum certification in the Earth Check Company Standard; one of only 5 convention centres in the world with Platinum or Master certification.

Quote attributable to Julia Swanson, Chief Executive, Melbourne Convention Bureau said: “Melbourne’s top ranking in the GDS-Index is a testament to the power of collaboration across our city. From government and industry to our venues and suppliers, we’ve worked together to embed sustainability into the fabric of our business events sector. This recognition reflects our shared commitment to creating lasting social and environmental impact, and it reinforces Melbourne’s position as a global leader in sustainable business events.”

Mayor City of Melbourne, Nicholas Reece said: “Melbourne’s number one ranking in the GDS-Earth Index is a testament to our city’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, innovation and collaboration. From green buildings to inclusive community programs, we are embedding climate action into everything we do. This recognition reflects the strength of our partnerships and the passion of our people to build a cleaner, greener and fairer Melbourne for generations to come.”

Natalie O’Brien, Chief Executive, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre said: “Melbourne’s top ranking in the GDS-Earth Index is a powerful recognition of our city’s collective commitment to sustainability and innovation. At MCEC, we’re proud to contribute to this achievement through our world-leading environmental design and operations, and by working closely with our partners to deliver events that are not only exceptional but also responsible. This result reflects the strength of Team Melbourne and our shared vision for a thriving, sustainable visitor economy.”

 

 

 

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The post Yas Island Abu Dhabi and Zayed International Airport Surprises Saudi visitors with an Unforgettable Saudi National Day Moment appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Travellers arriving from Saudi Arabia were welcomed by Warner Bros. World Yas Island characters Tom and Jerry and received special gift bags from Yas Island.

In a spectacular collaboration, Yas Island Abu Dhabi and Zayed International Airport joined forces to create an unforgettable welcome for Saudi travellers this Saudi National Day.

The arrivals lounge came alive with celebrations as beloved Warner Bros. World characters, Tom and Jerry, greeted passengers arriving on the first inbound Saudi flight to Abu Dhabi.  Faces lit with joy on both children and adults, as travelers received special gift bags filled with keepsakes from Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World and Seaworld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

The party marked Saudi National Day in a moment like no other, while reaffirming Yas Island as the destination for world-class hospitality, entertainment and unforgettable memories.
Watch the heartwarming video from this morning’s unforgettable Saudi National Day celebration here.

 

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The post South Africa Leads the Charge in Growing Its MICE and Leisure Sector in Hyderabad appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

South African Tourism announced the launch of the fifth edition of its flagship corporate engagement initiative, Corporate Think Tank, with its first event having started at Hyderabad. The event brought together over 25 participants for an exclusive event of dialogue and collaboration. Designed as a four-city series, the initiative aims to strengthen partnerships between South African Tourism and India’s corporate sector. Through insightful discussions, destination showcase, and interactive networking, Corporate Think Tank provides a strategic platform to explore South Africa’s potential as a leading destination for business events, MICE, and leisure travel.

Hyderabad has emerged as a key focus market for South African Tourism, driven by its thriving multinational presence and growing outbound travel potential. With the city’s corporate ecosystem spanning IT, pharma, and healthcare, South African Tourism is prioritising Hyderabad as a strong source market for MICE travel. During recent Corporate Think Tank event in the city led by Ms. Deepika Nair, Acting Trade Manager, South African Tourism, positive discussions highlighted South Africa’s strengthened positioning as a preferred MICE hub backed by improved connectivity through upcoming direct flights from India and simplified visa processes, including faster approvals within five working days and initiatives like the Trusted Tour Operators Scheme. These developments are making travel more seamless for Indian businesses.

“The Corporate Think Tank plays a pivotal role in understanding the evolving requirements of Indian businesses and in simplifying their incentive travel planning,” said  Gcobani Mancotywa, Regional General Manager for Asia, Australia, and Middle East, South African Tourism. “I am delighted with the strong participation as we kick off this year’s series in Hyderabad, a city brimming with potential for global business travel. The discussions have been extremely positive, and we are excited about the opportunities ahead to host corporate events and meetings in South Africa. With India being one of our fastest-growing markets, Hyderabad’s corporate sector will play an instrumental role in driving South Africa’s MICE growth.”

With 47% of India’s population currently aged 15 to 54, MICE is projected to rise to 60% by 2025 and 56% by 2050 corporate spending on overseas events, expanding infrastructure, and enhanced global connectivity are set to propel India into a global MICE powerhouse, positioning South Africa as a natural and compelling partner in this upward journey. This growth is fueled by India’s booming outbound travel market, the world’s second fastest growing after China, driven by a youthful and educated population, a rising middle class, and increasing disposable incomes.

South Africa has emerged as a leading destination for MICE travel from India, with its diversity of offerings ranging from over 3,000 adventure activities and iconic wildlife safaris to scenic road trips and awe-inspiring natural beauty all of which can be experienced within a week. The Rainbow Nation’s ability to deliver rewarding, cost-effective, and value-driven experiences has made it a top choice for Indian corporates seeking memorable incentive getaways, with South African Tourism consistently building a strong reputation as a trusted partner in this space.

 

 

 

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The post Industry Leaders Champion “Wed in India” with Temple Weddings at ICWF 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Marriage is the union of two souls; temples are the union of man with the divine. When these two meet, heritage is not only preserved but reborn. This evocative idea set the tone for the opening session “Sacred Backdrops, Soulful Vows” at the International Congress for Wedding Futures (ICWF) 2025, Asia’s largest and most influential congregation for the global wedding fraternity.

The three-day convention – a premier, authoritative think-tank for the business of weddings for over a decade – brought together visionaries, policy advocates, and creative leaders to reimagine the future of weddings in India. The inaugural panel featured stalwarts including Shri Giresh Vasudev Kulkarni, Founder of Temple Connect and ITCX (International Temples Convention & EXPO); Shri Chetan Vohra, Co-Founder of Wedding Line; Tanuja Pandey, Advisor & Steering Committee Member, Department of Tourism, Maharashtra; and Rakhi Kankariya, Rachnostav Weddings. The conversation was moderated by Roshan Abbas.

Shri Kulkarni used the platform to encourage the fraternity to embrace temple towns as soulful and culturally rooted wedding destinations. “My pitch at ICWF 2025 was simple: Make temple towns epicentres for sustainable and spiritual wedding experiences. Not just me, but statistics also show that Millennials and Gen Z couples are increasingly drawn to temples for their weddings, seeking something inherently meaningful. While European castles sell history, Indian temples embody both history and spirituality,” he said.

His message struck a powerful chord with the industry, particularly as it aligns seamlessly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for “Wed in India.” Shri Kulkarni further emphasized the enormous economic opportunity that lies in temple-town weddings. “The domestic tourism and hospitality sectors stand to benefit immensely – from hotels and logistics to local municipal bodies. But this movement requires new infrastructure that balances tradition with modern convenience,” he added.

The panel echoed his view, spotlighting temples as guardians of India’s cultural and spiritual heritage while offering untapped potential for authentic luxury wedding experiences.

ICWF’s Legacy and Leadership

For over a decade, ICWF has been at the forefront of organizing and streamlining the global wedding business, operating as the premier think-tank and authoritative voice of the industry. Its role has gone beyond convening conversations, actively shaping discourse around policy, sustainability, and innovation in weddings.

At the heart of this transformative journey is Samit Garg, Co-founder of ICWF and President of the Events and Entertainment Management Association (EEMA). Garg’s vision and advocacy have been instrumental in steering ICWF as the forum where culture, commerce, and policy converge. His push for enabling policies – including the opening up of temple economies and temple complexes as sanctified yet modern venues for wedding rituals and ceremonies – has paved the way for conversations such as the one that unfolded at ICWF 2025.

Speaking about the movement, Garg noted, “The wedding industry in India is not just about scale or grandeur. It is about rooting the biggest celebration of our lives in cultural authenticity, while also opening new avenues for tourism, hospitality, and heritage preservation. Temple weddings are not merely about a sacred backdrop; they can become the very symbol of India’s soft power in the world.”

A Defining Moment for “Wed in India”

The session underscored how, in a world obsessed with palaces and castles abroad, India’s temples – with their blessings, heritage, and spiritual resonance – can emerge as the ultimate venues for soulful weddings. The resounding response from the wedding fraternity at ICWF 2025 reaffirmed that this is not just a trend but a movement waiting to redefine India’s cultural and economic landscape.

As ICWF continues to shape the future of the wedding industry, temple towns are poised to stand as epicentres of heritage-led, sustainable, and spiritually rich celebrations – where unions transcend into alignments with tradition, community, and the divine.

 

 

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The post Experience Navratri Getaways with Leisure Hotels Group  appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Navratri, celebrated over nine sacred days, is a time of devotion, fasting, colour, and celebration. Each day honours a different form of the Goddess, with rituals, temple visits, music, and community celebrations. It is also a time for self-reflection and renewal and there is no better place to experience it than in India’s spiritual heartlands.

From the ghats of the Ganga to the temple lanes of Vrindavan, Leisure Hotels Group offers soulful escapes that balance spirituality with modern comfort. Nestled in Uttarakhand’s Dev Bhoomi (Land of the Gods) and beyond, across India’s most sacred towns like Haridwar and Rishikesh.  These retreats take you close to revered shrines, evening aartis, and the festive riverfronts that glow during Navratri.

1. Aloha on the Ganges, Rishikesh
Located on the banks of the holy Ganga near Laxman Jhula, Aloha on the Ganges is a sanctuary for seekers, offering serene Himalayan views ideal for yoga, meditation and spiritual renewal.  Special Navratri Thali menus featuring Sweet Lassi, Sakkarkand Tikki, Shahi Kesar Paneer Kofta Curry, Rasedar Aloo, Sitafal ki Subzi, Jeera Samak Rice, Kuttu ki Poori, Sabudana Papad, Fruit Salad and Makhana Kheer will be served at Latitude and Patio, combining tradition with mindful dining. On Maha Dashami, the property will host Ramleela and Ravan Dehan, bringing the festive season to a meaningful close.

2. Ganga Lahari, Haridwar
Situated on the sacred ghats of Har Ki Pauri, Ganga Lahari places guests at the heart of Haridwar’s Navratri celebrations, surrounded by chants, rituals, and evening aartis by the river. Guests can enjoy temple visits, vegetarian dining with a river view at The Patio Cafe, and the unforgettable experience of evening aartis by the river. During the festive period, Ganga Lahari will serve a specially curated Navratri Thali featuring Aloo Tamatar ki Sabji, Samak Rice, Kuttu Pakodi, Sabudana Tikki, Arbi Tuk, and more. Each dish is rooted in tradition, offering a simple yet fulfilling festive experience.

3. Brij Eternity, Vrindavan
In the holy town of Vrindavan, where every street echoes with bhajans and Krishna’s divine stories, Brij Eternity blends modern comfort with spiritual energy. Its in-house vegetarian restaurant, Tulsi Ark, serves flavourful regional and multicuisine fare, offering dishes such as Paneer Kali Mirch, Ajwaini Arbi, Bharwa Tandoori Aloo, and Rasgulla with Rabri. Located close to temples like Prem Mandir and Banke Bihari, it is perfect for travellers looking to immerse themselves in darshan, devotional music, and temple festivities. Tulsi Ark brings together simple, rooted flavours in a space that nourishes both body and spirit.

 

 

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The post The Luxe Nomad to offer a truly immersive experience for Loy Krathong appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

As Thailand marks Loy Krathong on 5th November, The Luxe Nomad gets ready to offer a rare and immersive cultural experience for its guests in Phuket and Koh Samui.

As the nation celebrates its beloved festival of gratitude, reflection, and renewal, guests get to learn more about the holiday through hands-on experiences.

These include complimentary krathong-making workshops where they can craft their own lantern floats before releasing them into the water under the full moon.

Timeless traditions come to the fore

The krathong, a delicately decorated float of banana leaves, flowers, incense, and a candle, is the festival’s most recognisable symbol.

However, beyond its tranquil beauty, its deeper meaning is not commonly known outside of Thailand.

According to Thai tradition, strands of hair, nail clippings, or coins are sometimes placed inside the float as tokens of negative energy to be released from one’s life. 

As the krathong drifts away, so too do the misfortunes, symbolising a fresh start. 

At its heart, the ritual honours Phra Mae Khongkha, the Hindu goddess of water, as Thais ask forgiveness from the river and express gratitude for life-sustaining waters.

The Luxe Nomad celebrates the Festival of Light

Beyond its symbolism, Loy Krathong is one of Thailand’s most significant cultural events, celebrated nationwide and in Thai communities across the globe. 

It is both a personal ritual and a shared experience, blending artistry, spirituality, and togetherness.

That said, guests staying at The Luxe Nomad’s properties in Thailand can join exclusive complimentary krathong-making workshops led by locals on 5th November to learn time-honoured folding and floral techniques while immersing themselves in the Thai spirit of light and renewal. 

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The post Hotel Indigo Wuxi Qingming Bridge to accept bookings from 30th September appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Hotel Indigo Wuxi Qingming Bridge announced that it will commence accepting bookings from Tuesday, 30th September.

Conveniently located approximately 4.3 kilometers from Wuxi Railway Station, 14.1 kilometers from Wuxi East Railway Station, and 12.2 kilometers from Sunan Shuofang International Airport, the hotel offers easy access for both business and leisure travelers. 

With 141 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, inspired by Wuxi’s “waterfront lanes” and “literary study rooms,” each accommodation is equipped with BALMUDA audio systems, Dyson hairdryers, and capsule coffee machines, ensuring a stylish and comfortable stay.

Where a storied past meets a stylish present

Nestled in the historic Qingming Bridge Ancient Canal Scenic Area, along the picturesque Nanchang Street, the hotel blends the timeless charm of Jiangnan water towns with the rich history of Wuxi, known as the “City of a Thousand Bridges.” 

Inspired by the city’s iconic bridges, the hotel combines cultural heritage with modern aesthetics, creating an immersive stay that celebrates both tradition and contemporary lifestyle.

At the heart of its design is the concept of the Bridge which symbolises a connection across time and space. 

Here, the elegance of Jiangnan’s waterways meets innovative modern design, offering guests a unique narrative that links past and present. 

Thus, the hotel serves as an inspiring new starting point for exploring the cultural essence of Wuxi.

A touch of tradition

Xijin A Neighborhood Café takes inspiration from the culinary traditions of the Grand Canal’s historic docks, offering authentic Jiangnan flavors enhanced by modern cooking techniques. 

An open kitchen adds an interactive dimension, allowing guests to immerse themselves in Wuxi’s food culture. 

The hotel also offers a versatile 240-sqm meeting space for both business and social events, along with a temperature-controlled swimming pool and fitness centre for relaxation and rejuvenation.

With its refined design and cultural depth, Hotel Indigo Wuxi Qingming Bridge is more than a place to stay: it is a gateway to discovery, marking the beginning of a unique journey for every guest.

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The post Michael Parker takes the lead as Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort’s general manager appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Urban luxury destination Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort announced that Michael Parker was appointed as its general manager as of 2nd September.

In his new post, Parker will be guiding the next chapter of the resort’s history, enhancing its reputation as a destination for immersive luxury and holistic wellness. 

Minor Hotels’ vice-president of operations in Asia Nicholas Smith said of Parker: “Michael has proven himself to be a dynamic and inspiring leader, with an exceptional ability to bring out the best in his teams and deliver meaningful results. His success in the Maldives and deep international experience make him the ideal candidate to lead one of our flagship properties in Bangkok. We are confident that under his leadership, Anantara Riverside will continue to set new benchmarks for excellence in urban resort hospitality.”

Parker himself remarked: “It is a privilege to lead Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort. This property holds a special place in Bangkok’s hospitality landscape, and I look forward to working alongside the talented team to continue crafting transformative experiences and building on the resort’s legacy of excellence.”

The art of immersive luxury

Parker will lead a comprehensive renovation of its food and beverage outlets, including Sala Lakorn, Spice Market, and Brio. 

These signature restaurants will be reimagined to deliver a vibrant culinary experience within one of Bangkok’s only urban resorts. 

At the same time, the new general manager is committed to expanding the resort’s wellness offerings through enhancements to the Anantara Wellness programme. 

Guests will discover bespoke wellness journeys that blend time-honoured rituals with advanced medical therapies to restore balance and vitality. 

Whether through tailored detox plans, elevated fitness regimens, or rejuvenating medical spa therapies, Anantara Wellness empowers guests to embrace optimal health and leave feeling renewed and inspired.

Meet Michael Parker

Parker brings over 20 years of leadership experience in luxury hospitality to his new role in Bangkok, including high-profile positions across the UK, China, Cambodia, and the Maldives. 

He joined Minor Hotels in 2023 as complex general manager, overseeing three of the group’s resorts in the Maldives: Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort, Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, and Naladhu Private Island Maldives. 

During his tenure, Parker led the US$50 million transformation of the resorts, elevating operations, guest satisfaction, and service delivery. 

His leadership in the Maldives earned him the distinction of ‘General Manager of the Year – Asia award’ at the 2025 Minor Awards of Excellence.

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The post Hotel asset managers call for a collaborative approach to asset management at IHIF Asia appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Speakers from several hospitality asset management firms declared at the Asian International Hospitality Investment Forum (IHIF Asia) that the old model of asset management is unsustainable.

In light of this statement, investors and operators are now calling for a more collaborative approach.

Relevant observations were pointed out during a panel discussion chaired by Global Asset Solutions’ CEO Alex Sogno

Among those involved in the discussion on Lifecycle Management: Planning for Optimal Asset Performance were Prospect Hotel Advisors’ Rohan Gopaldas, Eric Siegel from EQT Group, and  Hilton’s Gisle Sarheim. 

Success lies in alignment

Sogno said during the panel: “What we’ve heard here is that lifecycle management is less about reacting to issues and more about anticipating each stage of a hotel’s journey from development to exit. Success lies in aligning ownership, operators, and investors around a clear long-term strategy, while having the discipline to execute on short-term performance. Hotels are living assets, and the most successful ones are those nurtured with foresight, accountability, and adaptability.”

He added that the previous model of asset management should be replaced with a fresh, less confrontational approach, leaning on expert knowledge, with all parties working alongside the hotel’s operations. 

Asset management groups should be independent and global and look to educate owners, with the goal of building sustainable asset management platforms for them to operate their own asset management teams. 

With regard to the current position of the market, Sogno said that owners were doubling down on proactive asset management to capture the current upcycle.

This would mean significant changes with regard to repositioning, brand/manager selection, and tech-enabled margin improvement.

Sogno remarked: “Owners are no longer just building; they’re engineering performance—from operating model selection to data-driven revenue and targeted capex.”

Investors and owners were also increasingly open to flexible operating structures, including third-party management, hybrid models and joint ventures to sharpen ROI and accelerate projects to market.

Significant growth in the luxury and lifestyle hospitality segments

The panel came against a backdrop of increased investor interest in the luxury and lifestyle hotel sectors in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly from institutional and private equity capital. 

Region-wide pipelines were at or near records, with notable acceleration in luxury and lifestyle projects and growth in new brands coming into the market. 

Luxury and upscale assets accounted for almost 85% of the total hotel investment in the Asia Pacific region during 2024 and the first half of 2025, according to the latest research from Global Asset Solutions.

The company’s Asia-Pacific Hotels Transactions & Market Snapshot for full-year 2024 and first half of 2025 reported that an increase in liquidity driven by the strong dollar had helped to bolster deals.

For all hotel deals exceeding US$20 million, the total transaction volume in the region during 2024 reached US$11.2 billion, with 139 transactions, and 56 worth US$5 billion so far this year.

The study also found that Japan was the most in-demand hotel market, with a weak yen and near-zero interest rates, meaning that the country accounted for over US$4 billion in hotel transaction volume, nearly 40 percent of the total for the year.

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