Discover Asia (2025)

10/09/2025

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) today unveiled significant enhancements to its network and product offering, reinforcing the Group's growth strategy and commitment to delivering greater connectivity and elevated travel experiences across its airlines. With new routes, added frequencies, and innovative in-flight dining, MAG continues to build momentum as it strengthens its regional presence while charting Malaysia Airlines' journey towards becoming one of the world's Top 10 global airlines by 2030.

Malaysia Airlines will commence daily flights between Kuala Lumpur and Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) beginning 9 January 2026, bringing the airline's network in Greater China to seven destinations. This expansion reinforces its presence in one of the region's fastest-growing markets for both business and leisure travel, further supported by the recent introduction of reciprocal visa-free entry between Malaysia and China. The airline currently operates flights to Beijing (PKX), Shanghai (PVG), Guangzhou (CAN), Xiamen (XMN), Hong Kong (HKG), and Taipei (TPE).

Meanwhile, Firefly will launch new jet services to Krabi (KBV), Siem Reap (SAI) and Cebu (CEB) from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) Terminal 1 from November 2025 onwards. These additions strengthen Firefly's role in enhancing regional connectivity, providing travellers with seamless access to popular destinations across ASEAN, while supporting both tourism and business travel.

Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), said, “With these new routes and expanded frequencies, MAG is strengthening its role as the gateway to Asia and beyond, making it easier for travellers to discover top destinations across the region and further afield. At the same time, we remain focused on delivering a premium in-flight experience that reflects our commitment to Malaysian Hospitality. Innovations such as our new vegetarian satay is just one example of how we continue to innovate while staying true to our heritage, offering more variety to meet evolving customer expectations. With the networks we are expanding, the products we are enhancing, and the people driving these efforts, Malaysia Aviation Group is ready to meet the future with confidence and deliver value for our customers and our nation.”

Complementing its network expansion, Malaysia Airlines has introduced a vegetarian satay made from tender Lion's Mane mushroom, available for Business Suite and Business Class passengers on selected sectors. Infused with the airline's signature marinade and served with cucumber and raw onion, this plant-based bites delivers the same rich flavour as the traditional satay while offering a wholesome alternative for vegetarian travellers.

In addition to new routes, Malaysia Airlines and Firefly will also increase frequencies across their network beginning October 2025. Malaysia Airlines is adding more services to Australia, New Zealand, China, India, the Maldives, and Bangladesh, while Firefly is boosting domestic and regional connectivity to Singapore, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Penang, and Johor Bahru. These enhancements give travellers greater choice and flexibility, supporting tourism, trade, and stronger people-to-people ties across Asia and beyond.

These network expansions are underpinned by MAG's ongoing fleet modernisation strategy. The introduction of the A330neo on select Australia and New Zealand routes is a significant step forward, offering state-of-the-art comfort, improved fuel efficiency, and an elevated in-flight experience. By the first quarter of 2026, Malaysia Airlines will operate the youngest widebody fleet into Australasia, a milestone that underscores both the Group's sustainability agenda and its commitment to delivering service excellence with the signature warmth of Malaysian Hospitality.

As the returning Official Airline Partner and Premier Sponsor of MATTA Fair 2025, MAG is transforming this September's edition into its most dynamic showcase yet through the MAG Arena, which reimagines more than 70 booths into a futuristic travel experience. Building on the success of April's edition, the MAG Arena will spotlight Malaysia Airlines' and Firefly's networks and cabin products, cutting-edge digital innovations including AI-powered hospitality, exclusive meet-and-greet sessions with global and local sports icons, and rewarding offers for visitors throughout the three-day Fair held at MITEC Kuala Lumpur.

10/09/2025

With demand for Japan at an all-time high - search traffic up 50% and enquiries soaring 124% year-on-year - Ski Safari has created three all-new Ski & City Safaris that combine Japan's legendary powder with the very best of its culture, cuisine and history.

New for winter 2025/26 and ahead of their 30th anniversary in 2026, Ski Safari's exciting themed trips build on the success of their popular Taste of Japan Ski Safari, offering a fresh, immersive way to discover more of the country - both on and off the slopes.

Andy Knights, Japan Product Manager and a regular visitor to Japan, says, “With Japan being such a bucket-list destination for so many skiers, we wanted to create holidays that justify the travel time and cost by offering so much more than just skiing. These new safaris are about making every moment count - amazing snow, incredible food, fascinating culture and real experiences that stay with you long after you've returned home.”

Based on Ski Safari's popular Ski & City holiday format, each itinerary features a 50/50 split between skiing powder in Niseko and exploring traditional culture, cuisine or history across the country. The Ski Safari team regularly travel to Japan - some have even lived or instructed there - so every holiday they create is based on first-hand experience, resulting in detailed and carefully curated itineraries.

In each themed itinerary, customers will:

Ski Niseko's consistently deep powder over five days;
Eat, sleep and experience Japanese heritage, cuisine and history in at least two cities;
Stay in high-quality accommodation;
Travel seamlessly on Japan's efficient transport;
Stopover in Tokyo for the final night and a fitting Japanese finale.
“This isn't just a ski trip - we've designed these safaris so that skiers can really make the most of their time in Japan,” Knights adds, “it's about crafting memorable travel for skiers who are looking for something beyond the ordinary.”

With over 15 years of experience operating in Japan, Ski Safari is the only UK ski tour operator offering this unique blend of skiing and culture. All holidays are tailor-made, so resorts or cities can be swapped out to match different interests and pace.

Whether for a frequent visitor or those heading to Japan for the first time, these new Ski & City Safaris are the perfect way to discover a side of Japan most skiers never get to see.

Introducing the new Japan Ski & City Safaris

Flavours of Japan Ski & City Safari - World-class skiing with a mouth-watering culinary discovery across Niseko, Kobe, Osaka and Tokyo.

"Ski and eat your way across Japan, diving into deep powder snow on the northern island, followed by delicious local food on the mainland. It's an absolute must for skiers and snowboarders who like to explore a new country with their taste buds." - Andy Evans, Sales Consultant and former Japan resident for five years.

After five days skiing world-famous powder in Niseko, customers will swap out ski boots for chopsticks with visits to Japan's top gastronomic cities, including Kobe for its famously melt-in-the-mouth tender wagyu beef, and Osaka, Japan's neon-lit street food capital. The journey finishes in dazzling Tokyo, home to the world's highest concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants and endless culinary delights.

This tour is tailor-made for food lovers and snow seekers alike, offering a flavour-packed take on the classic ski holiday.

How much? A 12-night Flavours of Japan Ski & City Safari starts from £2,995pp, based on 2 adults departing in March 2026 (first night spent in the air). Price includes 6 nights B&B at the 3*+ Always Niseko, 2 nights in a 4* hotel in Kobe, 2 nights in a 4* hotel in Osaka, 1 night in a 4* hotel in Tokyo, all international and domestic flights, shared transfers, and rail passes. (01273 224060, https://www.skisafari.com/experiences/ski-safaris/flavours-of-japan)

Histories of Japan Ski & City Safari - Carve Niseko's endless, sumptuous powder before stepping into the past to take in poignant historic moments that changed Japan forever.

"Ski the deepest, lightest snow imaginable in Niseko, followed by a reflective journey through the historically significant cities of Hiroshima and Okinawa. This experience combines peaceful powder turns with tales of resilience and endurance." - Abbie Janzwell, Product & Sales Specialist and former resident in Niseko.

Ski Safari's Histories of Japan Ski & City Safari blends world-class powder skiing with a reflective journey through the human stories and cultural shifts that continue to shape Japan today.

After carving through some of the best powder on earth, travel south to Hiroshima and Okinawa - two locations central to the legacy of World War II. Visit Hiroshima's haunting symbols of devastation, resilience and peace. In Okinawa, uncover the island's tragic wartime past, then discover its distinct Ryukyuan heritage, whose unique dance and music customs are often overlooked in broader narratives of Japan. The adventure ends in Tokyo, where Japan's post-war recovery and technological advancements are on full display.

How much? A 12-night Histories of Japan Ski & City Safari starts from £2,995pp, based on 2 adults departing in March 2026 (first night spent in the air). Price includes 6 nights B&B at the 3*+ Always Niseko, 2 nights at a 4* hotel in Hiroshima, 2 nights in a 4* hotel in Okinawa, 1 night in a 4* hotel in Tokyo, all international and domestic flights, shared transfers, and rail passes. (01273 224060, https://www.skisafari.com/experiences/ski-safaris/histories-of-japan)

Traditions of Japan Ski & City Safari - Combine Niseko's legendary deep powder skiing with Japan's rich identity and cultural heritage by visiting Kyoto, Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go and Tokyo.

"This ski & city safari is the perfect way to explore Japan's winter wonderland and discover its traditions, both past and present. Staying in a ryokan in Kyoto and Shirakawa-go's snow-covered village was an experience I'll never forget." - Andy Knights, Japan Product Manager.

Ski Safari's Traditions of Japan Ski & City Safari transforms world-class powder skiing into a cultural odyssey through Japan.

In Kyoto, the birthplace of tea ceremonies and kimono weaving, experience Japan's refined traditions firsthand. Then head to Kanazawa, with its preserved samurai and geisha districts and artisan food scene. Wander through the city's Edo-era architecture, impressive temples and torii gates for an authentic Japanese experience. A day trip to the storybook village of Shirakawa-go reveals a slower, rural way of life. Finish in Tokyo, where ancient temples sit beneath neon skylines - a fitting finale to a journey through Japan's past and present.

How much? A 12-night Traditions of Japan Ski & City Safari starts from £2,995pp, based on 2 adults departing in March 2026 (first night spent in the air). Price includes 6 nights B&B at the 3*+ Always Niseko, 2 nights at a traditional ryokan in Kyoto, 2 nights in a 4* hotel in Kanazawa, 1 night in a 4* hotel in Tokyo, all international and domestic flights, shared transfers, and rail passes. (01273 224060, https://www.skisafari.com/experiences/ski-safaris/traditions-of-japan)

09/09/2025

As culinary travel reaches new heights in 2025, South Korea has become one of the world's premier food destinations, proudly home to 40 MICHELIN-starred restaurants featured in the latest MICHELIN Guide Seoul & Busan 2025. During a visit to Korea, travelers will experience a dynamic dining scene where traditions and innovation meet.

The global culinary tourism market size is projected to grow from $1174.27 million in 2025 to $3766.67 million by 2032. With this rising interest, South Korea's culinary landscape offers not just meals, but meaningful cultural experiences. From centuries-old fermentation practices to groundbreaking plant-based cuisine and sustainable temple food traditions, the 2025 MICHELIN Guide affirms that Korea is not just keeping up with the global food movement — it's leading it. In a recent survey, 64% of travelers to South Korea shared that the destination's culinary delights are their main reason for visiting.

At home, Korea blends its rich culinary heritage with contemporary expressions. The recent inclusion of jang-making practices (fermented soybean-based sauces) on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list, following kimjang (kimchi-making), underscores the rich, enduring traditions that define K-Food.

Among this year's MICHELIN accolades are three restaurants that reflect the diversity, innovation, and global relevance of Korea's food scene:

LÉGUME (1 Star) – Seoul's first MICHELIN-starred vegan restaurant — and Asia's only such establishment among just 10 vegan MICHELIN-starred venues worldwide. Chef Sung Si-woo, defying conventional wisdom, opened Légume during the pandemic. Today, his plant-based vision is a symbol of Seoul's progressive and sustainable dining evolution.
MINGLES (3 Stars) – The flagship restaurant of Chef Kang Min-goo, Mingles made history by earning Three MICHELIN Stars in 2025, becoming the pinnacle of Korean fine dining. Known for its sophisticated reinterpretations of traditional flavors, Mingles has become a must-visit for discerning global travelers.
ESCONDIDO (1 Star) – A groundbreaking entry, Escondido is the first-ever Mexican restaurant in Asia to receive a MICHELIN Star, showcasing South Korea's growing embrace of diverse culinary expressions and global fusion.
In total, the 2025 edition highlights 186 restaurants in Seoul and 48 in Busan across Starred, Bib Gourmand, and Selected categories. With 29 new entries, the guide reflects a vibrant, evolving culinary landscape.

"This year's selection showcases great diversity of restaurants with new styles of cuisine and unique offerings, reflecting the steady development of the Korean dining scene," said Gwendal Poullennec, the international director of the MICHELIN Guide. "As Seoul has established itself as a culinary destination, we are confident that Busan will also see an increase in outstanding restaurants and chefs over time."

09/09/2025

Tourism Cares, a leading non-profit dedicated to advancing sustainability within the tourism industry, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), today kicked off its week-long Global Meaningful Travel Summit in Bangkok and Krabi. As the host destination for 2025, Thailand is showcasing its leadership in community-based and sustainable tourism, welcoming more than 40 travel and tourism executives, advisors, media, and industry associations to exchange insights and commit to action.

Now in its fifth year, the Tourism Cares Global Meaningful Travel Summit strengthens sustainable supply chain development, creates new opportunities for local businesses, and educates the industry on responsible standards and best practices in sustainable tourism.
As part of the Summit, Tourism Cares and TAT will focus on four key areas:

Community impact: Illuminating how Thai organizations are using tourism to drive positive environmental, cultural, and social impact.
Educational exchange: Tackling global sustainability issues through a local lens featuring Thai speakers and panelists who are championing destination stewardship, cultural heritage, and responsible travel.
Immersive experiences: Building connections between the travel trade and local partners via meaningful tours and visits in Bangkok and Krabi.
Pledge-driven outcomes: Encouraging attendees to commit to actions that drive long-term positive change for their companies and destinations where they send or host travelers.
The Global Meaningful Travel Summit also highlights the evolving role of public-private partnerships between government, the travel industry, and suppliers. Local partners—from grassroots organizations and small businesses to representatives from Thailand’s tourism sector, will share practical insights on stewardship and meaningful travel. At the conclusion of the program, attendees will be charged with creating takeaways and commitments on how they can positively change their business operations and drive sustainability forward.

“We are delighted to bring our Global Meaningful Travel Summit to Asia for the first time and especially thrilled to be here in Thailand —a country where community-driven initiatives are at the heart of its sustainable tourism strategy,” said Greg Takehara, CEO, Tourism Cares. “From coastal villages in Krabi to the environmentally focused businesses of Bangkok, Thailand’s local people are using tourism as a vehicle to generate economic, environmental, and cultural impact in innovative ways. This Summit will shine a light on their invaluable work and inspire our industry partners to build travel with purpose, fostering an equitable tourism model that is beneficial for all.”

“Thailand is honored to partner with Tourism Cares to host its 2025 Global Meaningful Travel Summit,” said Mrs. Chiravadee Khunsub, Deputy Governor for International Marketing Europe, the Americas, Middle East & Africa. “This gathering reflects our shared commitment to advancing sustainability and demonstrates how community-led tourism can preserve our cultural heritage, protect natural resources, and ensure that the benefits of travel reach all of our communities. As host, we are proud to welcome global partners to experience these initiatives firsthand.”

Putting Thailand’s People on the Map
Over the past two years, TAT has invested in its commitment to sustainable tourism by partnering with Tourism Cares on initiatives that will generate long-term positive impact for its country. In 2023, TAT launched its Tourism Cares Meaningful Travel Map of Thailand, which highlights vetted, sustainable enterprises, products, services, accommodations, and tours across the country. Today, the Meaningful Travel Map of Thailand includes more than 45 organizations across the country that work to focus on cultural heritage, environmental conservation, and regenerative practices. As part of the Global Summit, attendees will engage with several of the Map’s featured partners through immersive tours and experiences, including Bang Korbua Community Tourism Club, Ban Nai Nang Community, Laem Sak Community, Patom Organic Living, Poomjai Garden, and the Varana Hotel. To view a full list of organizations on the Meaningful Travel Map of Thailand, tourismcares.org/thailand.

“The partners featured on the Meaningful Travel Map of Thailand are at the heart of this Summit,” said John Sutherland, senior director of community impact at Tourism Cares. “In Krabi, villages like Baan Nai Nang and Laem Sak are showing how grassroots leadership can lift up entire communities—preserving cultural traditions, restoring natural resources, and creating new opportunities through tourism. These impact partners are proof that when tourism is built by and for local people, it becomes a force for resilience and regeneration that benefits everyone. We look forward to spotlighting these organizations and immersing ourselves in ‘The Land of Smiles.’”

The Tourism Cares 2025 Global Meaningful Travel Summit, co-hosted by Tourism Authority of Thailand, is made possible through the support of Alexander + Roberts, Accor, Bob Whitley Memorial Fund, Intrepid, Kaleidoscope Adventures, National Tour Association (NTA), and Travel Answers.

09/09/2025

Trip.com, a leading global online travel service provider, has announced the launch of its brand-new “Free Layover Tour Service” at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), designed to transform long layovers into immersive cultural experiences.

Following the success of its Shanghai Express and Beijing Express free layover tours, this new programme offers six curated half-day itineraries — three free and three premium, all including guided transport and expert English-speaking guides. The service is available to all international travellers (not limited to Trip.com customers) transiting through HKIA with layovers of seven hours or more. Bookings can be made for free via the Trip.com app, official website, or on-site registration at the airport.

At the launch, Jane Sun, Chief Executive Officer of Trip.com Group, says: “We believe the future of travel lies not only in reaching destinations, but in transforming every moment into a unique and memorable experience. By reimagining every point in the journey as an opportunity, we are opening new ways to inspire travellers, empower destinations, and set a new standard for how the global travel ecosystem fosters connection and drives growth.”

Mrs Vivian Cheung, Chief Executive Officer of Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), adds: “We are delighted to introduce the new free local tour service for transfer passengers at HKIA to turn transit time into cultural exploration opportunities. With the support from Trip.com, we look forward to presenting Hong Kong’s unique beauty to travellers from around the world and promoting tourism, through which we aim to attract more passengers to transfer at Hong Kong and strengthen HKIA’s position as a premier international aviation hub.”

Six Curated Routes, Three Free Tours Now Open for Registration

Designed to showcase the beauty of Hong Kong and maximise transit time, the layover service offers itineraries curated from Trip.Best rankings, powered by an AI analysis of real traveller reviews, ratings, and booking data. Three free tours highlight cityscapes, natural beauty, and local heritage, while three premium paid itineraries offer deeper exploration into iconic areas such as Lantau Island, Victoria Peak, and Tai O fishing village

Travellers can select an itinerary that best fits their arrival time and layover duration. Bookings can be made via the Trip.com app, official website, or in person at HKIA’s transit counters (E134 and E135) or Trip.com Travel Services Counters (A03 & A04) in Arrival Hall A — the latter also serving as the designated assembly point for the tours.

To enhance the travel experience, Trip.com has also set up a dedicated consultation and booking counter at HKIA, offering one-stop services including day tours, transport arrangements, accommodation, attraction tickets, eSIM cards, and other popular travel essentials. Visitors can also collect an exclusive welcome gift pack upon arrival.

After clearing immigration, participants meet their guide at the designated Trip.com counter. Each tour lasts approximately four hours, accommodates up to 20 guests, and includes airport transfers. At the end of the tour, participants receive a fast-track pass to re-enter the restricted area, ensuring a seamless connection with onward flights.

Carefully timed to coincide with peak transit hours, these tours are designed to help travellers make the most of their layover in Hong Kong. With hassle-free transport, expert English-speaking guides, and every detail arranged by Trip.com, passengers can simply relax and enjoy the vibrant sights of the city. Best of all, the experience is completely free — no planning, no stress, and no hidden costs.

09/09/2025

A Japanese winter offers more than just crisp air and vast snowscapes—it captivates visitors with hot springs shrouded in mist, seasonal delicacies enhanced by the cold, and historic towns and festivals illuminated by snowy lanterns. From the drift ice of Hokkaido to the frost-covered trees of Tohoku and the snow-dusted traditional houses of Chubu, each region boasts its own unique winter charm. This season offers the exclusive luxury of admiring snowy landscapes while soaking in warm onsens and indulging in winter seafood and hot pot dishes.

December ~ February is an especially popular period, with hotels and transportation often booking up early. That’s where Club Tourism comes in—offering over 10,000 diverse package tours across Japan. Whether your departure point, travel dates, group size, or budget, we make it easy to find your ideal winter getaway.

Hokkaido Tours: A Winter Tale of Snow, Cuisine, and Nature
Hokkaido in winter is a world of silver snow and culinary treasures. Beyond classic destinations like Sapporo, Otaru, and Hakodate, experience the Okhotsk Sea drift ice cruises, the world-famous Sapporo Snow Festival, and indulge in seasonal seafood like hairy crab and scallops. Snow activities amidst vast nature and relaxing hot springs will warm both body and soul.
Learn more: https://x.gd/f9FcP

Tokyo-Departure Tohoku Tours: Snowy Landscapes and Hot Spring Paradise
Easily accessible from Tokyo via bullet train, Tohoku boasts winter wonders like the snow-covered Ginzan Onsen, frost monsters of Zao, and the winter scenery of Oirase Gorge. Soaking in hot springs while admiring snowy views is an unparalleled experience. Enjoy winter festivals and local cuisine, and step into a fairy-tale world.
Learn more: https://x.gd/jnqM2

Tokyo-Departure Chubu & Hokuriku Tours: Where History Meets Snowscapes
In regions like Shirakawa-go, Gokayama’s gassho-zukuri villages, and Kanazawa’s Kenrokuen Garden, winter highlights their unique beauty. Snow-covered traditional houses and gardens create a magical atmosphere. Savor winter seafood and hot springs while immersing yourself in Japan’s traditional culture and natural beauty.
Learn more: https://x.gd/zV6yt

Explore More Winter Tours in Japan:

- Winter Tour Special Page: https://x.gd/TqQxg

Limited-Time Special Offer!

Book now and enjoy exclusive discounts:

Get ¥1,000 off for bookings over ¥6,000
Get ¥2,000 off for bookings over ¥20,000
Perfect for These Travelers:

Planning a trip to Japan between December 2025 and February 2026 (winter vacation/New Year)
Want to enjoy snowscapes, hot springs, and cultural experiences in one trip
Prefer relaxed travel without the crowds, especially suited for mature travelers
Looking for hassle-free package tours without the stress of planning
About Club Tourism:
With over 40 years of experience as part of the Kintetsu Group, Club Tourism has welcomed global travelers since 2008. We offer more than 10,000 diverse tours, and our website now supports multiple languages (since 2024), making it easier for travelers from Asia and the West to plan their journeys.

From day trips to multi-day stays, traditional festivals to hidden gems, our tours are designed to immerse you in Japanese hospitality and culture. We prioritize accessibility and comfort for mature travelers, ensuring a worry-free experience.

Make your Japanese journey unforgettable, let Club Tourism help you create lasting memories.

Company Overview
Company Name: Club Tourism Co.,LTD
Headquarters: NBF Toyosu Canal Front, 5-6-52 Toyosu, Koto-ku, Tokyo
Business: Domestic and international package tours, themed travel, travel planning and operations
Official Website: https://www.club-t.com/

08/09/2025

Capella Hotel Group has appointed four new General Managers to lead key properties across its Asian portfolio, bringing experienced hospitality professionals to Capella Singapore, Capella Ubud, Capella at Galaxy Macau, and Patina Tianjin.

Capella Hotels and Resorts, recognised as the World’s Best Hotel Brand by Travel + Leisure for three consecutive years, continues to strengthen its leadership team, while Patina Hotels & Resorts brand prepares for its inaugural property launch in mainland China. The appointments reflect the group’s focus on operational leadership as luxury travel continues to evolve across the region.

Paul Jackson Takes Leadership at Singapore Flagship

Paul Jackson joins Capella Singapore following nearly a decade as General Manager of London’s Claridge’s, where he oversaw a comprehensive renovation that balanced heritage preservation with contemporary updates. During his tenure, the property received Michelin recognition while achieving significant revenue growth.

Jackson’s hospitality career spans more than two decades across international markets.

Paul’s experience includes leadership roles at Mandarin Oriental properties in Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Sanya, as well as positions at Grand InterContinental Seoul and The Ritz Hotel London. His background covers key markets including Australia, Hong Kong, South Korea, Thailand, and China.

At Capella Singapore, the 113-room luxury resort set within 30 acres of rainforest on Sentosa Island, Paul will oversee all hotel operations with a focus on guest experience and operational performance. The property, which features 72 sea-facing suites and duplexes and nine manors at The Club Residences, has cemented its position as a leading luxury destination in the region over the past decade.

Christian Jaquier Appointed to Luxury Tented Camp

Christian Jaquier joins Capella Ubud with over 20 years of diverse experience in luxury hospitality across Asia, Africa, and the United States. Most recently, he served as General Manager at Long Beach Mauritius, where he focused on operational improvements and market positioning.

His career includes leadership roles across multiple regions, with experience at AYANA Resort and Spa in Bali and several Ritz-Carlton properties in the United States, including locations in Arizona, North Carolina, Georgia, and Atlanta. Christian’s expertise spans pre-openings, repositioning projects, and implementing innovative service standards across luxury and lifestyle properties.

Born in Brazil and of Swiss and Chinese heritage, Christian brings valuable cultural insights and linguistic capabilities to his role, being fluent in French and Portuguese. His multicultural background and language skills uniquely position him to enhance Capella Ubud’s profile and presence on the world stage.

At Capella Ubud, a luxury tented camp nestled in the jungles of Bali, Christian will lead the team in upholding the personalised guest experiences and continuing the meaningful connections with local villages that the property has built since its opening in 2018 and its recognition as #1 World’s Best Hotel by Travel + Leisure in 2020. He brings his passion for creating unforgettable guest experiences to the resort’s ongoing commitment to authentic Balinese hospitality and immersive cultural experiences.

Andy Lio Appointed to Macau Property

Andy Lio joined Capella’s roster of strengthened leadership following his appointment as General Manager of Capella at Galaxy Macau earlier this year. With almost 20 years of experience in luxury hospitality, Andy excels in delivering bespoke luxury service and brings extensive knowledge of the Macau hospitality market.

Andy’s career foundation was built in Rooms Operations, providing invaluable hands-on experience. Since 2019, he has served as AVP – Hotel Operations at Raffles at Galaxy Macau, where he also held the role of Acting General Manager for over a year, leading the team to achieve the Forbes 5-star award in 2024 during the property’s first full year of operation. His career includes leadership roles at the Ritz-Carlton Macau and on the pre-opening team of Galaxy Macau in 2010, where his dedication to personalised service helped the property achieve Forbes 5-star recognition.

At Capella at Galaxy Macau, Andy will continue to leverage his deep understanding of the market, focusing on delivering the luxury experiences and innovative service standards that have defined his career in the region’s most prestigious properties.

Roman Angulo Leads First Patina Hotel in China

Spanish-born Roman Angulo is promoted to General Manager of Patina Tianjin from his role as Resort Manager of Capella Singapore.

Roman brings over 20 years of international hospitality experience specialising in hotel management across leading brands. His career includes senior leadership positions at Four Seasons Beijing, Rosewood Hotel Beijing, and Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong. Most recently, before joining Capella Hotel Group, he served as Hotel Manager at Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona, where he oversaw the operational direction of rooms and food & beverage divisions across both Asian and European markets.

As the Patina brand scales up with its inaugural property in mainland China, Roman will establish operational standards and guest service protocols that will define the brand’s market entry. Patina Tianjin, which opens in the first half of 2026 in Tianjin’s historic Italian Heritage District, is a 18,000 square metre urban oasis featuring 17 heritage buildings with 145 guest rooms oriented around private garden courtyards.

His role will be instrumental in bringing the Patina brand to life at this unique property which harmonises Italian Classicism with contemporary sophistication and celebrates Tianjin’s cosmopolitan heritage while offering tranquility within the bustling city.

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