MAY 2021 - Make a Splash This Summer
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MAY 2021 APAC Newsletter
Make a Splash Cultural Journeys with What's on Your
This Summer Asia Pacific's Ancient Tribes Travel Packing List?
~ Page 6 ~ Page 16 ~ Page 38
FOREWORD
WEBBEDS ASIA PACIFIC
DARYL LEE
CEO
Daryl.Lee@webbeds.com
SUN KOK SHENG
CCO
Koksheng.Sun@webbeds.com
CYNDI NG
COO
Cyndi.Ng@webbeds.com
BERNARD CHIONH
CFO
Bernard.Chionh@webbeds.com
CHERYL CHEANG
Vice President, Marketing
Cheryl.Cheang@webbeds.com
EILEEN TOK
Vice President, Commercial Technology
FOREWORD Eileen.Tok@webbeds.com
Which country in
Welcome to the May edition of Travel Aggregator – WebBeds’ newsletter KRISTY LEE
Lead Research Analyst
dedicated to the travel trade in Asia Pacific!
Kristy.Lee@webbeds.com
This month, we’re shining the spotlight on indigenous cultures with a special JINTANA PORNTANAPAT
General Manager, Thailand and Indo-China
feature on Asia Pacific’s traditional communities. From the colourful hill tribes of
Asia Pacific will
Jintana.Porntanapat@webbeds.com
Southeast Asia to the original inhabitants of Australia and New Zealand, these
authentic encounters are sure to leave a lasting impression. VINCENT LEUNG
Managing Director, Hong Kong,
Philippines & Japan
We’ll immerse you in a world of aquatic wonders with the best water-based Vincent.Leung@webbeds.com
you travel to next?
vacations all across Asia, including river, sea, pool and onsen adventures to keep
JOY HUANG
you cool in the summer! Also, do you have one “must-pack” travel item that you
Managing Director, China
just can’t do without? We’ll recommend places to visit that are perfectly suited to Joy.Huang@webbeds.com
those items that you find it impossible to leave at home.
LINDA KIM
General Manager, South Korea
Don’t miss our sneak preview of Centara Reserve Samui, the breath-taking new Linda.Kim@webbeds.com
island retreat that will represent the global debut of Centara Hotels & Resorts’
new five-star brand. And of course, we’ll provide all the latest news, photos and ASHUTOSH DOGRA Tell us and you could receive a little surprise from us*!
General Manager, India
exclusive offers from WebBeds in Asia. Ashutosh.Dogra@webbeds.com
Enjoy the read! JOHN STUCCI Submit your entry by 31 May 2021.
President, Pacific
John.Stucci@webbeds.com
Daryl Lee
JOY ZHOU
CEO of WebBeds
General Manager, Singapore and Malaysia
Asia Pacific Joy.Zhou@webbeds.com
To catch up on any past editions of Travel Aggregator, simply head to Submit now >
attractions.fitruums.com/landing/aggregator
@WebBedsAPAC
ABOUT TRAVEL AGGREGATOR
Travel Aggregator is the monthly newsletter published in-house by WebBeds Asia Pacific. Created
especially for our travel trade partners and clients, this informative newsletter will include the latest
Hmong culture
updates from WebBeds Asia Pacific, including our news and developments, plus exciting offers from our in Vietnam
partners, a selection of the hottest hotel deals, and much more!
If you’d like to be featured in the next issue of Travel Aggregator, please email
Travel.Aggregator@fitruums.com. Alternatively, for marketing partnerships with WebBeds Asia Pacific,
please email marketing@fitruums.com.
*Terms and conditions apply.
2
C E N TA R A R E S E RV E S A M U I C E N TA R A R E S E RV E S A M U I
Centara Reserve Samui
NEWLY OPENED
Centara Reserve Samui will make its debut in
May 2021, marking the launch of Centara Hotels
& Resorts’ new luxury brand. Set at the tranquil
end of Chaweng Beach, on the site of the
former Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui, this
reimagined retreat has been created by AvroKO,
the international design specialist, with a refined
and eco-friendly five-star concept that blends
contemporary style with timeless Thai heritage.
Upon opening, Centara Reserve Samui will
feature 184 brand-new rooms, stunning suites and
beachfront pool villas, with premium categories
attended by a “Reserve Host”, the brand’s butler
service. Guests can unwind in a choice of inviting
pools, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, yoga pavilion
or the world’s first Reserve Spa Cenvaree
The resort is also a haven of gastronomy, with seven
F&B options including vibrant restaurants, a beach
club, a Thai tapas bar and The Gin Run, which
presents over 35 flavoured gins. A new Sunday
brunch will enliven the weekend scene in Samui.
Surrounded by nature and overlooking the
sparkling sea, Centara Reserve Samui will inspire
guests with signature experiences that reflect the
tropical elegance of its surroundings.
4 5
"Sp
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Ma
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"
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THIS SUMMER
Water is the source of life; it entices us, enlivens us
and inspires us. Water has been proven to relieve
stress and people who reside close to oceans, seas,
lakes and rivers are often happier and healthier
than those whose lives remain landlocked. It is little
surprise therefore, that the ripples and reflections
of water set the stage for so many of our summer
holidays. Ever since humans started to travel, we have
flocked to the shore to soothe our spirits.
This summer, WebBeds showcases a series of
amazing aquatic adventures in Asia Pacific...
SINGAPORE T H E F U L L E R T O N B AY H O T E L
SWIMMING POOL
SINGAPORE
Swimming is a wonderful way to boost your body
and mind. Simply immersing yourself in refreshing
pools can help to ease stress, enhance your mood
and aid sleep. For the ultimate indulgence, rooftop
pools combine the soothing properties of water
with panoramic vistas, creating a spectacular
setting for your daytime or evening dip.
THE FULLERTON
BAY HOTEL
Set on Singapore’s iconic waterfront, The Fullerton
Bay Hotel is a contemporary gem that showcases
the modern face of this sophisticated city.
Crowning the hotel, the rooftop infinity pool is a
haven of tranquility where guests can come and
cool off, enjoy an invigorating swim and soak up
stunning views of Marina Bay. Jacuzzis and sun
loungers submerged in the shallows provide the
perfect places to relax, surrounded by tropical
greenery and kissed by the sea breeze.
8 9
A R I M A C H O , K O B E , J A PA N ARIMA ONSEN GEKKOEN KOUROKAN
ONSEN
ARIMACHO, KOBE, JAPAN
In Japan, visiting an onsen is not only a way of
warming up on a cold, winter’s day; it can also be a
wonderful way to find refreshment in the summer
sun. In the verdant hills above Kobe, Arimacho is a
blissfully secluded hot spring resort. Having taken
a dip in the healing waters, the sultry air will feel
cooler than before.
ARIMA ONSEN
GEKKOEN KOUROKAN
Arima Onsen Gekkoen Kourokan is an exceptional
base for your onsen escape. While this appears
to be a modern, eight-storey hotel, it retains the
authentic ambience of a traditional Japanese
ryokan. Guests can spend their days bathing in
a choice of indoor pools and alfresco springs,
overlooking the forest-clad hills and Takigawa
River, which also offers a serene setting for daytime
strolls. Some of the hotel’s rooms even come
equipped with their own outdoor baths.
10 11
HAN RIVER, SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA SIGNIEL SEOUL
RIVER
HAN RIVER, SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA
Meandering its way through Seoul, dividing the
city into north and south, the Han River is a haven
of activity. Locals and visitors can spend endless
hours unwinding in a choice of parks or cycling
along 80km of riverside paths, with numerous bike
rental kiosks. Seven waterside swimming pools also
provide serene spots to take a revitalising break.
SIGNIEL SEOUL
Rising 555 metres high on the south side of the
Han River, Signiel Seoul is a spectacular luxury
hotel that combines panoramic city views with
five-star accommodation, fine dining, world-class
wellness and more. Located on the upper floors
of the Lotte World Tower, South Korea’s tallest
building, this impressive hotel lets guests chill out
in the indoor pool or at Salon de Signiel, a chic
lounge that overlooks the river. Seokchonhosu Lake
is also just moments away.
12 13
P E N A N G , M A L AY S I A ANGSANA TELUK BAHANG
BEACH
PENANG, MALAYSIA
The beach sets the scene for many of our most
magical summertime memories; strolling hand-
in-hand along the shore with your partner or
splashing in the sea with your kids. In Penang, the
“Pearl of the Orient”, Teluk Bahang Beach is blessed
with crystal clear waters and soft sands; simply
unwind, feel the gentle sea breeze and let your
spirits soar.
ANGSANA TELUK
BAHANG
Directly accessible from the beach, Angsana
Teluk Bahang blends five-star facilities with
uninterrupted views of the Andaman Sea.
Managed by Banyan Tree, this outstanding
international hotel features 250 contemporary
rooms and suites, an Angsana Spa, ocean-facing
infinity pool and a separate kids’ pool with water
play area. For a serene summer holiday vibe, the
Fire & Ice beach bar lets you chill out with chic
cocktails as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.
14 15
Cultural Journeys
with Asia Pacific’s Ancient Tribes
Asia Pacific is a mesmerizing melting pot of human cultures. Ever since homo erectus left Africa and made the long and winding journey to
East Asia, up to 1.8 million years ago, humankind has continually evolved, creating countless different and distinctive civilizations. Thankfully,
despite the crawl of globalization, thousands of tribal groups are still surviving and thriving all across the region. By visiting them, we can
support our local communities, and more importantly, by listening to their stories and learning about their lives, we can start to uncover our
region’s history and maybe even start to understand more about ourselves.
F I R S T NAT I O N S P E O P L E , AU S T R A L IA F I R S T NAT I O N S P E O P L E , AU S T R A L IA
FIRST NATIONS PEOPLE,
AUSTRALIA
CITY: ADELAIDE
The First Nations People are perhaps the world’s
most enduring indigenous group. With an
estimated 50,000 years of history and many
traditions that are still practised today, this is a
complex, captivating and deeply spiritual culture.
Take the Adelaide Kaurna Trail to learn about
this ancient way of life from tribal elders through
stories and artwork.
18 19ADAB CO B OUTIQUE HOTEL ADAB CO B OUTIQUE HOTEL
RECOMMENDED HOTEL:
ADABCO BOUTIQUE
HOTEL
Adabco Boutique Hotel is an exceptional base for
any exploration of Adelaide. Set in a heritage-listed
gothic-style building, this four-star hotel offers a
choice of spacious rooms and suites, including
family options, all equipped with free Wi-Fi. After a
day of learning about the area’s indigenous history,
travellers can reflect on their experiences and share
stories at the lounges and terraces.
20 21HMONG PEOPLE, VIETNAM HMONG PEOPLE, VIETNAM
HMONG PEOPLE,
VIETNAM
CITY: SAPA
The Hmong have lived in Southeast Asia for
centuries – even millennia. Famous for their
colourful costumes and exquisite arts and crafts,
these diverse groups, including the Black Hmong
and Red Dzao, have managed to retain their rich
heritage while welcoming the outside world. In the
cool highlands around Sapa, visitors will receive
a warm welcome in villages like Cat Cat and
Giang Ta Chai.
22 23K K S A PA H O T E L K K S A PA H O T E L
RECOMMENDED HOTEL:
KK SAPA HOTEL
Nestled in the heart of Sapa’s Old Quarter, KK
Sapa Hotel is the perfect base for an authentic
escape, with breath-taking views of terraced rice
fields, Fansipan Mountain and Muong Hoa Valley.
Guests can spend their days discovering Hmong
villages hidden in the hills, then return to the hotel
and experience five-star services including spa
treatments and delectable Vietnamese cuisine.
24 25KAREN PEOPLE, THAILAND KAREN PEOPLE, THAILAND
KAREN PEOPLE,
THAILAND
CITY: CHIANG RAI
Thailand’s northernmost province, Chiang Rai is
a colourful tapestry of indigenous tribes. Learn
about these vibrant communities at Baan Pa Oo,
the Union of Hill Tribe Villages, which celebrates
Thailand's hill tribes, including the Karen, who
live in remote villages throughout the region. The
iconic Kayan, a sub-group of Red Karen, are famous
for the brass rings omen placed around their necks.
26 27K A T I L I YA M O U N TA I N R E S O R T & S PA K A T I L I YA M O U N TA I N R E S O R T & S PA
RECOMMENDED HOTEL:
KATILIYA MOUNTAIN
RESORT & SPA
Surrounded by forest-clad hills in Chiang Rai, 40
minutes’ drive from Baan Pa Oo, Katiliya Mountain
Resort & Spa is a spectacular five-star retreat where
guests can unwind and uncover the local culture
and natural wonders of Katiliya Park nature reserve.
Each spacious villa features a private terrace and
panoramic views, and there is a choice of cool or
heated pools.
28 29MĀORI, NEW ZEALAND MĀORI, NEW ZEALAND
MĀORI,
NEW ZEALAND
CITY: ROTORUA
The Māori landed in New Zealand over 1,000 years
ago and their customs and traditions have become
an indelible part of the country’s identity. Travellers
can explore this rich heritage with a wide range
of experiences and encounters, such as visiting
Tamaki Māori Village, nestled in a forest near
Rotorua, or Te Puia, a seismically active zone where
ancient Māori arts still burn brightly.
30 31D I S T I N C T I O N R O T O R UA D I S T I N C T I O N R O T O R UA
RECOMMENDED HOTEL:
DISTINCTION ROTORUA
Distinction Rotorua is a locally-operated four-star
hotel that sets the stage for authentic adventures
in Whakarewarewa, Rotorua’s living Māori village
– just 500 metres away. Guests can stay in a
choice of rooms, including family options, bathe
in the outdoor swimming pool, chill out in the
underground grotto spa, or dine in a choice of four
great restaurants.
32 33JAPAN
Must-try Dish: Yakitori
-----------------------------------
Yakitori is surely the ultimate comfort food. Bite-sized
pieces of fresh meat are marinated, placed on bamboo
skewers and grilled over hot coals. Traditionally, Japanese
diners grab their yakitori from street-side stalls and casual
izakaya eateries. But this simple dish has become so
popular that it can now be discovered on the menus of
Michelin-starred restaurants!
To uncover the authentic culture of an Asian country, you must dine with SOUTH KOREA
the locals. Each destination has its own specialties that keep diners coming Must-try Dish: Naengmyeon
back, time and again. But how many dishes have you tried? Which are -----------------------------------
your favourites and which do you still need to tick off your list? WebBeds During the hot summer months, what could be more
has created an essential checklist of Asian cuisine that you simply need to satisfying than a bowl of naengmyeon – Korea’s cold
taste! Can you guess what other must-try dishes we will recommend next? noodle soup? Buckwheat noodles are immersed in a
cool beef or pickled radish broth, creating a distinctive
but deeply satisfying taste sensation. Originally from
North Korea (and popular as a winter dish), this has
now become a firm favourite with summertime diners
CHINA in the South.
Must-try Dish: Chinese Hotpot
-----------------------------------
Is there a more enjoyable dining experience than
Chinese hotpot? Gather your friends and family around
a simmering pot of rich, aromatic broth, and cook
whichever ingredients you desire, from fresh seafood
PHILIPPINES
Must-try Dish: Halo Halo
and premium meats to crisp vegetables, noodles and
-----------------------------------
more. Hotpot is perfect for warming up during the
Finally for dessert, let’s visit the Philippines for a refreshing
chilly winter months, but it can also be ferociously
bowl of halo halo. Ideal for cooling off on a hot day, this
spicy, so take care!
dish consists of crushed ice and condensed milk, topped
with exotic treats such as sago, banana and toasted rice.
Every region of the country has its own version, based on
local ingredients – see how many you can try!Together, Wherever
The best memories are made when your loved ones are by your side.
Save up to 49% and enjoy value-adds as you book these stays to spend some quality time with your family in South Korea!
Book from now till 31 May 2021
Find out more >WHAT'S ON
Travel
YOUR
PACKING LIST
When you travel, what’s the first thing you pack in
your suitcase? We all have that one item that we
simply cannot do without; whether it’s a gadget, a
keepsake, or even our favourite dress or jewellery.
But not all our “must-pack” items are suitable for
every destination; if you’re planning a beach break,
you probably won’t need your business suit, and if
you’re taking an urban sojourn, you might not need
your bikini!
In this edition of Travel Aggregator, we suggest places
in Asia Pacific that are perfectly suited to those items
that you just can’t leave at home!S A B A H , M A L AY S I A S H A N G R I - L A’ S R A S A R I A R E S O R T & S P A
MUST-PACK ITEM:
SHANGRI-LA’S RASA
FITNESS TRACKER RIA RESORT & SPA
SABAH, MALAYSIA Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort & Spa is the ultimate
Do you love to count your steps and monitor your active retreat for guests who want to be immersed
heart rate? If so, lace up your hiking boots, strap in nature. The beach meets the rainforest at this
on your fitness tracker and head to Sabah, where 400-acre resort, which is blessed with a wealth
you’ll shatter your daily records! Trek through a lush of facilities and activities, including a golf course,
landscape of forest reserves, rumbling rivers and spa, water sports, bird watching and jungle walks.
verdant valleys, before climbing to the summit of Spectacular views of Mount Kinabalu will inspire
Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s highest peak. your adventure.
Then set off on a white water rafting adventure on
the Kiulu River. Sabah envelops you in a world of
natural wonders.
40 41K ATA N O I B E A C H , P H U K E T, T H A I L A N D I M P I A N A P R I VA T E V I L L A S K A T A N O I
MUST-PACK ITEM:
IMPIANA PRIVATE
READING MATERIAL VILLAS KATA NOI
(BOOK/KINDLE) Impiana Private Villas Kata Noi is an enchanting
KATA NOI BEACH, PHUKET, THAILAND tropical hideaway set in lush greenery just steps
from Kata Noi Beach. Each spacious and stylish
Phuket’s west coast is home to a string of beautiful
villa features a private pool and panoramic
bays and beaches, all blessed with soft sands
sunset views, and personal services such as spa
and lapped by warm, gentle waves. Nestled in
treatments, barbecues and cooking classes can
the south of the island, Kata Noi Beach retains a
be arranged. The Living Room Restaurant sets the
sense of serenity and tranquility, creating an idyllic
scene for memorable meals overlooking the ocean.
setting for daytime relaxation. Simply sit in the
shade of the casuarina trees and lose yourself in a
good book, before cooling off with a refreshing dip
in the azure Andaman Sea.
42 43HONG KONG N I N A H O T E L C A U S E WA Y B A Y
MUST-PACK ITEM:
NINA HOTEL
STYLISH EVENING CAUSEWAY BAY
WEAR Nina Hotel Causeway Bay is a great base for your
HONG KONG upmarket escape in Hong Kong. With sweeping
views of Victoria Harbour, this five-star hotel
When you travel, do you always pack your most
is surrounded by sparkling shopping centres,
stylish evening dress in your luggage – even if you
restaurants and bars. Unwind in the breath-taking
don’t know when you’ll wear it? Don’t worry; in
rooftop pool, then dress up and head to Ah Yung
Hong Kong you’ll have plenty of opportunities to
Kitchen to experience Cantonese cuisine by one of
look a million dollars! Unpack your most gorgeous
the city’s most celebrated chefs.
gown or smartest suit, then head out to explore
the city’s swankiest dining destinations, including
many Michelin-starred restaurants. You could even
head to the shopping malls of Causeway Bay to
find your new “must-pack” outfit!
44 45Quiz OF THE MONTH
0 2 1
May 2
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to earn 100 bonus FIT Points
Stay tuned for upcoming quizzes to
earn more points.
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