For MICE professionals, a great deal goes into the planning and execution of a successful event, and the team behind Singapore MICE Forum 2025 certainly pulled it off.

But what is unique to the event’s third live run in the post-COVID period is that this was no longer just a MICE event, but a business event geared towards MICE professionals, one that would help broaden their perspectives and, in turn, lead to the evolution of the way events are done in Singapore and beyond.

SMF 2025 co-chair Adeline Lim shared: “Bringing in professionals from fields outside of the MICE experience was intentional. We’d like people to come and hear the insights shared from the outside. What they do next with the information they received during the forum is entirely up to them.”

Indeed, there is a great deal that MICE professionals could pick up from fields as diverse as sport and sports coverage, even heading straight to food and beverage and hospitality, many of which have interacted with or required the services of events experts.

As the event has drawn to a close, we at Travel Daily Media share with you, our readers, the various key concepts presented throughout the course of SMF 2025.

Lessons from the field

Broaden your horizons and keep an open mind

The beauty of this year’s SMF was how the majority of panellists weren’t from the MICE sector, but came instead from fields as far off as haute couture and comedy productions in order to show professionals a different way of doing things.

Keeping an open mind also means becoming flexible, thus becoming more capable of dealing with evolving situations, especially given the uncertainty of today’s world.

Flexible thinking also trains individuals and organisations to think fast on their feet, especially necessary in the event that they encounter situations wherein they need to come up with solutions on the fly.

While the brand is important, the people behind the brand are more important

When it comes to events, building a recognisable brand that works is the key to ensure audience recall, as well as longevity.

Think about it: the Oscars are one, the Olympics are another; in the contemporary context, we also have the likes of Paris Fashion Week and San Diego Comic-Con.

But people tend to forget that these events weren’t exactly a flash in the pan: they were built up over time by people who dedicated themselves to make them work.

So, why not humanise a brand to make it more approachable, relatable, and memorable?

MICE professionals can make this possible by sharing behind-the-scenes looks at their events on social media or build excitement up prior to an event with talking heads teasing the insights they intend to share onstage.

This enables core audiences to appreciate the amount of effort that goes into bringing an event to life on top of building brand image and recall.

Leverage the power of technology

Love it or hate it, artificial intelligence (AI) is most probably here to stay; so why not get some good use out of it in the context of MICE?

AI’s applications for events are manifold: while admittedly imperfect, the technology can be used to transcribe oral interviews and panel discussions which, at the end of the event, may be condensed into an official summary for dissemination to participants via the official event website or social media accounts.

At major international events like the Macau International Travel Expo and ITB China earlier this year, AI was also put to work for automatic translation: an especially useful addition given the global audience in attendance, many of whom had little to no understanding of the local lingua franca.

Likewise, we are already seeing the extensive use of QR codes for fielding questions for speakers, holding polls throughout the duration of a session and revealing results as they come in, and getting post-event feedback from participants.

Hardware matters when it comes to connectivity

The necessary equipment for staging events now goes beyond microphones, projectors, sound systems, and lighting.

Aside from projection screens on which to flash a speaker’s presentation, today’s events go the extra mile and offer live broadcast studios for podcasters and content creators, enabling them to share their experiences from the floor to their followers in real time.

This aspect was an offshoot of the pandemic and led to the development of hybrid events, further expanding the scope of MICE in the post-pandemic era as they bring events to those who may not be able to attend in person.

On a more mundane level, placing tablets with pre-installed applications or relevant content for the use of event participants also helps in boosting onsite interactivity.

Make the most of your online presence

I have personally noticed, particularly among corporate events in Asia, that related social media accounts tend to seem underutilised.

Most of the time, social media tends to be used for pre-event marketing; hype-building, so to speak.

However, MICE professionals should not discount the ability of their socials to amplify the total impact of their event.

Thanks to app functions like Instagram Live and Facebook Live, organisers have the ability to bring a wider audience base to where the action is currently happening.

At the same time, recordings posted after an event (even immediately after a session) can boost follower engagement on so many different levels, depending on whether these are full-length video footage or more easily digestible snippets or reels.

Also, while they may be temporary, short-form stories posted on social media also give viewers the opportunity to be at an event if only for a fleeting moment; add a poll related to the content, and the event’s engagement stands to grow at a significant rate.

On to the next one…

The post-mortem of any event is the time when both organisers and suppliers can look back and see the minutiae, so to speak, of what just came to pass.

This part of the event brings up participant feedback, and this should always be interpreted in a positive light; a challenge, to be exact, to make the next event better.

Indeed, as the organisers of SMF 2025 put it: the feedback, the notes, and the learnings are all there; what you as organisers, suppliers, or even participants do with all that is entirely up to you.

Regal Hotels International is doing its part to help those affected by the catastrophic Wang Fuk Court fire in Tai Po, Hong Kong.

In a statement released today, 28th November, officials at the hospitality management company declared: “Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the recent fire in Tai Po. At Regal Hotels International, we sincerely pledge to extend our support and assistance to offer comfort and support during this difficult time.”

To aid those affected by the blaze, Regal is providing 160 complimentary guest rooms located across various areas in Hong Kong for two weeks, and these accommodations include full board.

Likewise, provided rooms include accessible and pet-friendly options for those in serious need of a place to stay.

Meanwhile, Regal Riverside Hotel in Shatin will also be offering complimentary dining services to those affected and has opened its in-house Study Hub as a supportive shared space for residents, particularly students in need.

Hand in hand

Regal also supports related initiatives under the Bodhi Love Foundation (BLF) to actively reach out to primary schools and kindergartens in Tai Po to provide emergency assistance of HK$2,000 for each child. 

This initiative aims to help parents quickly acquire essential learning supplies, enabling children to resume their normal routines as soon as possible. 

Beginning next week, BLF will host a six-week mindfulness training course at Regal Riverside Hotel to nurture the emotional well-being of both parents and children during this challenging period.

Officials concluded their statement regarding the matter by saying: “Together, we hope to alleviate the burdens faced by those impacted by this tragedy. Let us unite in love and care as we navigate this challenging period.”

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), in collaboration with the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), has released its full programme for the upcoming PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2025 (PDMF 2025). 

As a leading organisation in Thailand’s MICE sector, TCEB’s commitment to developing secondary and tertiary destinations aligns closely with PATA’s mission for sustainable and inclusive tourism. 

This collaboration has been central to the organisation of this event.

That said, the event is set to be held at The Heritage Chiang Rai Hotel & Convention in Chiang Rai, Thailand and will run from 1st to 3rd December.

PDMF 2025 will feature thought leaders and creative voices with expertise in elevating Asia Pacific destinations’ global reputation.
Napintorn Srisunpang, minister attached to the Prime Minister’s office of the Kingdom of Thailand, will be officiating the event’s plenary conference.

A worthy destination

PATA chief executive Noor Ahmad Hamid described host city Chiang Rai as a destination that treasures its heritage whilst confidently embracing innovation holds the key to enduring success.

Hamid declared: “We are deeply grateful to our hosts, partners, and especially the warm and resilient people of Chiang Rai for showcasing this spirit so beautifully. PATA is delighted to bring the world to Chiang Rai, and the PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2025 has been thoughtfully designed to reflect this balance, offering experiences and insights that inspire tourism leaders to shape their destinations with cultural pride and a forward-looking vision.”

He likewise enthused as to how it has been a pleasure to work closely with Chiang Rai Province, the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand in preparation for PDMF 2025.

In alignment

Under the theme Steeped in Tradition, Rooted in Wellness: Weaving the Meaningful Narrative of Travel, the forum will cover topics including wellness, hyper-local travel, cultural heritage, technology, and destination reinvention. 

As a UNESCO Creative City of Design, Chiang Rai has showcased its vibrant uniqueness and its ability to leverage local artistry, Lanna heritage, and natural scenery to strengthen its position as a major Northern Thai destination.

Among the speakers for the main conference are:

• Aoranich Saleewong, Managing Director, Sawanbondin Group Company Limited
• Associate Professor Dr Peeradorn Kaewlai, Project Advisor on UCCN Co-Creative City Model, TCEB
• Atipan Phonpisit (Sueling), Owner, Eat Play Look Studio
• Choocheap Pongchai, Governor of Chiang Rai
• Jaruwan Suwannasat, CIO, TCEB
• Supawan Teerarat, President, TCEB
• Hannah Pearson, Director, Pear Anderson
• Hyun-chul Shin, Director, Jeju Tourism Organization
• Julinus Jeffery Jimit, CEO, Sabah Tourism Board
• Kenji Kondo, Senior Manager, Design and Creative Center Kobe, KIITO
• Montakarn Suvanatap Kittipaisalsilp, Associate Project Officer for Culture, UNESCO Regional Office in Bangkok
• Napat Tantaviwattana, Content Creator
• Narumon Nilmanon, Vice President, Young Entrepreneurs Group (YEC), Chiang Rai Chamber of Commerce
• Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO, PATA
• Pasratada Vachratadaarpa-pak, Vice President, Grow Longevity Ecovillage
• Paul Pruangkarn, Director – Communications & Marketing, PATA
• Peter Semone, Chair, PATA
• Pongsakorn Areesiripaisal, President, ChiangRai Coffee Lovers
• Professor Vanchai Sirichana, Chairman of Mae Fah Luang University Council and Founding President
• Promporn Jindawong Nateharn, CEO, Chiang Rai City Development (CRCD) Co., Ltd.
• Rachel Gray, British Wildlife Artist
• Ramrada Ninnad, Head of Sustainability, Mae Fah Luang Foundation
• Santi Sawangcharoen, Executive Director of the Americas, Middle East and Africa Region, Tourism Authority of Thailand
• Sasiwimon Wongjarin, Director, Studio 88 Artist Residency
• Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, Director-General, DASTA
• Somluk Pantiboon, Pottery Artist, Doy Din Dang Pottery
• Somsak Boonkam, CEO, Local Alike
• Sonal Patel, Vice President – SEA, The Trade Desk

What’s on the slate?

The forum begins on Monday, 1st December, with the Chiang Rai WOW Market & Famous Food Festival at the Chiang Rai Rajabhat University. 

Organised by Chiang Rai Province, the festival spans seven zones and showcases 100 booths of Chiang Rai’s unique local products and famous dishes, along with cultural activities and performances.

On the second day of the event, participants are encouraged to join one of three destination experience routes curated by the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Public Organization) (DASTA). 

The three technical tours are:

• Creative City of Design for Sustainability;  
• Cave, Coffee, and Contemporary Culture; and 
• History, Locality and Artisans. 

Each tour highlights landmarks, local cultures, and artistry across Chiang Rai from traditional coffee dripping activities and Akha tribal performances at Pha Mee Community in Mae Sai to cultural experiences at the Chiang Saen Historical City Tourism Information Center. 

Additionally, all PDMF 2025 delegates are invited to share creative content on their social media platforms to further showcase Chiang Rai’s destinations and tourism offerings. 

The delegate who produces the most outstanding content will receive a special prize, which will be announced during the conference on Wednesday, 3rd December.

The day concludes at Singha Park, one of Chiang Rai’s key attractions, where a Welcome Dinner hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will be held. 

The participants will be greeted by the iconic dishes, such as Mini Rice Cracker with Nam Prik Ong, Hung Lay Pork Curry, and Phulae Pineapple Fritters A-La-Mode.

The conference, which will be held on the final day of the event, begins with a cultural performance and welcome remarks by Peter Semone, Chair of PATA, Dr Supawan Teerarat, President of Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), Mr Santi Sawangcharoen, Executive Director of the Americas, Middle East and Africa Region, Tourism Authority of Thailand; Mr Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, Director-General of DASTA, and Mr Choocheap Pongchai, Governor of Chiang Rai. Mr Napintorn Srisunpang, Minister Attached to the Prime Minister’s office of the Kingdom of Thailand, will also grace the event to formally officiate the conference.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) confirmed that Thailand was selected to be the host country for the 2026 Global Wellness Summit (GWS).

The announcement was made by the Global Wellness Institute at the culminating ceremony for GWS 2025 in Dubai

The campaign that led to Thailand’s appointment as host country was spearheaded by the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau in partnership with Phuket Province and the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine under the Ministry of Public Health. 

Presented under the theme The Symphony of Wellness, the bid reflects Thailand’s ambition to build on its long-standing reputation as a wellness tourism destination and contribute more prominently to the global wellness economy.

TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool congratulated the organisations that led Thailand’s successful bid to host the Global Wellness Summit 2026 whilst reiterating her agency’s support for the upcoming event. 

She declared: “TAT stands ready to support their efforts and to help ensure a memorable and productive event in Phuket. Thailand’s diverse wellness strengths, from traditional therapies to nature-based experiences, provide a strong foundation for welcoming the global wellness community next year.”

A massive undertaking for wellness

Slated for the 10th to 13th November 2026 in Phuket, GWS 2026 is expected to welcome more than 600 delegates from over 30 countries, including leading experts, investors, policymakers, Fortune 500 executives, and researchers. 

Early assessments indicate that the event will generate positive economic momentum and support high-value business and policy engagement across the wider wellness sector.

Thailand’s readiness to host GWS 2026 is built upon years of progress in health and wellness development, driven by capabilities in medical services, holistic therapies, traditional Thai medicines and emerging health innovation. 

At the same time, confidence in Thailand’s wellness offerings has grown steadily in key international markets, including the Gulf region, where demand for Thai healthcare and wellbeing services continues to rise. 

This direction was further strengthened by TAT’s annual Middle East Luxury Trade Meet, with the third edition taking place in Kuwait on 24th November and in Bahrain on 26th November, highlighting Thailand’s appeal as a destination for premium wellness and lifestyle experiences.

Ready to host

Meanwhile, host city Phuket is advancing its strategy to evolve into a Global Wellness Capital, strengthening its ecosystem across longevity services, medical innovation, wellness hospitality and health-driven urban development. 

Hosting GWS 2026 is expected to support this long-term direction by encouraging investment, building international confidence, and positioning Phuket as a rising Asian hub within the fast-growing wellness economy.

Indeed, Thailand’s commitment to wellness has been central to TAT’s tourism direction for many years, reflected in a range of health, wellbeing and mindful-travel initiatives, including the recent global campaign Unforgettable Experience: Healing is the New Luxury. 

GWS 2026 thus provides an opportunity to further highlight Thailand’s strengths in holistic wellbeing and to work alongside national and international partners to support the summit’s success.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, presented her 2025 Autumn Budget to Parliament on 26 November and published supporting documents on the gov.uk website.

The UK’s Autumn Budget announced that regional mayors in England will gain the power to introduce a visitor levy, or tourist tax, on overnight stays in hotels, holiday lets, and B&Bs. This new tax, which could range from £1 to £5 per night, aims to generate revenue to support local economies and infrastructure from tourists. At the same time, it has announced major multi-year funding settlements for mayors to invest in skills, business support, transport and local growth. However, any negative impact on consumer demand for holidays would directly contradict the Chancellor’s own growth agenda. Does the Budget risk taxing growth in UK Tourism?

The UK’s 2025 Autumn Budget has elicited varied reactions from industry leaders, primarily concerning the proposed tourist tax and broader economic implications for the travel sector. Let us find out what the industry reactions are to this Autumn Budget.

Mark Tanzer, ABTA Chief Executive, said: “Against a difficult economic and fiscal backdrop, it will take some time to assess the impact of  Budget. But what is clear, is that the success of the travel industry has never been more critical to the overall health of the UK economy.

Support through lower level of business rates welcome

As such, the move to support high street businesses, including travel agencies, through a permanently lower level of business rates, is very welcome. However, ABTA remains concerned about the cumulative impact of taxes and levies on travel businesses and consumers.

Negative impact on consumer demand for holidays should be avoided

The introduction of a wide range of new taxes and tax increases, largely targeted at middle- and higher-income earners, is something that will need to be monitored carefully. With travel powering the UK economy over recent years, any negative impact on consumer demand for holidays would directly contradict the Chancellor’s own growth agenda.

Similarly, changes to employment and business taxes, including further increases in the National Living Wage, especially for younger workers, will increase the cost of employment. The government must be careful not to deter businesses from hiring staff, especially those younger people who are looking to start their careers in travel. However, there were also some positive moves in this area, including enhanced access to apprenticeships for SMEs.”

New tax, risks creating confusion and additional costs for the industry

Rob Russell, CEO of AC Group, comments on the proposed taxation of hotel rooms announced in UK’s Autumn budget:

“While a hotel tax may seem intended to align the UK with other European, it must be implemented carefully. It’s important to note that this would apply to every hotel guest – corporate visitors, meetings and events, domestic travellers, or families staying overnight – not just tourists. Tourism, particularly inbound tourism, is vital to our economy, and any new tax risks creating confusion and additional costs for an industry still recovering from the impact of COVID-19, which received little targeted support for inbound tourism. In most destinations where similar taxes exist, the charge is offset by a lower rate of VAT on accommodation, which is not currently proposed here.

Tax needs to be transparent and proportional

If introduced, the tax must be transparent, proportional, and clearly communicated well in advance, allowing businesses and operators to plan accordingly. Percentage-based charges could create significant practical difficulties for operators like AC Group, who work with international tour operators and pre-packaged travel, where rates for hotels, flights and transfers are agreed months in advance. For example, a small fixed rate, such as £2 per night, could be manageable, but a one-size-fits-all approach risks adding another fee to what is already an expensive destination compared to most of Europe.

We need clarity on the process – who collects the tax, how it is applied, and how it is passed on to consumers – to avoid unintended consequences. Any measure must support a sustainable tourism sector rather than inadvertently placing additional burdens on visitors or businesses.”

Pay-per-mile scheme for EVs would slow the shift towards greener choices

Responding to the newly announced EV investment + proposed pay-per-mile scheme in the budget and its broader implications for the wider chauffeur and taxi industry, James Dow, General Manager UK & IE at Blacklane, said:

“The new pay-per-mile scheme for electric vehicles (EVs) risks undermining efforts to drive greater EV adoption, potentially slowing the shift towards greener choices. This is especially a risk in a city such as London that will also be hit with the removal of exemption for EVs in the Congestion Charge zone from next year.

Policy needs to support high EV adoption

“We encourage sustained policy-maker investment and collaboration with industries driving high EV adoption, as well as individual EV owners. This should include enhancing public charging infrastructure, reviewing VAT on public charging as a priority, and targeted support for those now facing higher ownership and running costs ensuring that momentum in EV adoption is supported, and not lost.

“Blacklane is engaged in conversations with our chauffeur partners to fully understand the impact of these changes, and to develop meaningful incentives to ensure EVs are an attractive option to professional chauffeurs. Despite operating environment challenges, we remain committed to EVs remaining the dominant vehicle type on our platform throughout the UK.”

Global hospitality management company BWH Hotels further expands its portfolio in Vietnam through the opening of Best Western Premier Imperial Dalat.

The brand-new upscale hotel puts guests in the heart of an enchanting destination known as the City of a Thousand Flowers.

BWH Hotels vice-president in APAC Olivier Berrivin said of the property: “As Vietnam is one of the key markets for BWH Hotels, we are excited to introduce guests to this exceptional new property in Da Lat. With its fresh air, breathtaking scenery, lush floral landscapes and a wide range of attractions, from historic palaces and pagodas to golf courses and organic farms, this is the perfect place to unwind, create memorable experiences, or make a lasting impression. We look forward to supporting the growth of tourism in the City of a Thousand Flowers.”

With the opening of Best Western Premier Imperial Dalat, BWH Hotels now offers five hotels and resorts across Vietnam, spanning destinations including Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc and Nha Trang, with many more in the pipeline.

Something for everyone

The 91-key hotel was designed to meet the needs of both leisure and business travellers, featuring contemporary rooms and suites, including connecting options for families, with panoramic views of the city or mountains. 

Commanding a prime location close to the city center, Best Western Premier Imperial Dalat is within walking distance of Da Lat Market, Xuan Huong Lake, and Con Ga Church.

It should also be noted that the hotel is surrounded by casual cafés and scenic photo spots.

Throughout their stay, visitors can swim in the year-round heated pool, work out at the fitness center, or feel rejuvenated at the spa, while children can enjoy fun activities at the kids’ club. 

Culinary options include authentic Vietnamese and Western cuisine at the all-day dining venue, an elegant Japanese restaurant, a stylish lobby lounge, vibrant beer garden and sophisticated cigar lounge.

Best Western Premier Imperial Dalat is also a hub for meetings and events, with a grand ballroom and several smaller function spaces providing intuitive options for every occasion, from executive meetings and training sessions to gala dinners and one-of-a-kind weddings.

Even its location is perfect: nestled in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, Da Lat is an oasis of cultural charm and natural beauty, with a refreshingly cool climate and a wealth of attractions for all travellers. 

The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) and global payments firm Visa have entered a strategic collaboration pushing tourism promotions and data-sharing.

Tourism secretary Christina Frasco signed a memorandum of understanding with Visa’s regional for Southeast Asia Bella Lai establishing the partnership during a ceremony in Makati City on Thursday, 27th November.

Through this new understanding, Visa and the DOT will collaborate in key areas such as data-driven tourism; micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs); digitalization and innovation; as well as the provision of financial literacy training for tourism stakeholders.

Frasco said of the agreement: “This is a clear vote of confidence in Philippine tourism that Visa has recognised the momentum of growth in the Philippines and that they’re partnering with us to empower our destinations as well as our tourism stakeholders. We can use Visa’s roster, as their influence spans globally in terms of promoting the Philippines.”

Greater exposure for better results

The secretary added that the data-sharing component of the deal would support the department in adjusting and fine-tuning its programmes and the development of destinations to ensure they are customer-driven.

Likewise, Frasco anticipates more local tourism businesses and destinations to reap the benefits of a globalised tourism economy through increased exposure from Visa’s platforms.

She said: “We cannot deny that the democratisation of travel is here and that is largely driven by digitalization. That is why it has been a very high priority for us to make sure that our traditional tourism stakeholders will have more opportunities to elevate their offerings through partnerships with institutions that offer these platforms, whether it’s Visa, or Klook, or other providers or digital solutions.”

Making the most of an increasingly cashless global economy

Visa’s latest study reports that a growing number of tourists is increasingly preferring cashless payments.

Travellers across the Asia Pacific are shifting sharply toward cashless transactions, with 97 percent planning to bring debit, prepaid, or credit cards on their trips, compared to just 17 percent who intend to carry foreign currency.

Visa Philippines country manager Jeffrey Navarro said the findings align with the Philippines’ push for a cash-light economy and highlight the importance of digital payment readiness in the tourism sector.

Navarro said: “Visa supports the government’s vision of a cash-lite society, and this collaboration with the DOT reinforces our commitment to driving tourism growth in the Philippines. By enabling seamless and secure digital payments for travelers, empowering small businesses to thrive, and advancing digital and financial inclusion, we aim to create a stronger, more resilient tourism sector. Through data-driven insights and collaboration, we’re helping to build an ecosystem where every stakeholder can participate in the digital economy and contribute to sustainable tourism growth.”

Marriott Bonvoy property W Maldives recently marked a sustainability milestone with its first ever Green Globe certification.

This recognition reinforces the resort’s long standing dedication to sustainability, and reflects its team’s work in building smarter, more responsible systems that support both exceptional guest experiences and the natural environment that surround the island.

W Maldives’ general manager Amila Handunwala said that achieving Green Globe certification is both an honour and a motivation for what comes next.”

Handunwala enthused: “This recognition reflects the passion of our team and our dedication to protecting the natural beauty that makes the Maldives so extraordinary. We will continue to push forward with the initiatives that make our island more resilient, more energy efficient, and more connected to its environment, while still delivering the signature W experience our guests love.”

That said, W Maldives continues elevating its sustainability roadmap with upcoming initiatives that further advance renewable energy use, circularity in operations, and marine conservation. 

Likewise, the resort remains committed to shaping a future where bold hospitality and responsible environmental stewardship move forward together.

High-impact sustainability

Throughout this year, W Maldives has expanded its sustainability program with several impactful initiatives. 

The resort now mitigates half of its food waste through an on-site biogas plant that transforms discarded organics into methane for kitchen use and nutrient rich fertilizer for the island garden. 

A solar energy project featuring 647 panels has also been installed across the resort. 

This initiative generates 310 kW of renewable power, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering the overall carbon footprint.

The resort’s circularity efforts continue to grow, with expanded planting of bananas, mangoes, papayas, and other produce to support on-island supply and reduce import dependency. 

In the ocean, W Maldives has deepened its conservation work through its Sea of Stars program and its collaboration with MARS Sustainable Solutions. 

Together with the resort’s resident marine biologist, the team has successfully installed 400 reef stars as part of a long-term commitment to restoring coral ecosystems in the surrounding atoll.

What is Green Globe certification?

Green Globe is one of the world’s most respected certification systems for sustainable tourism. 

It evaluates properties against rigorous global standards covering environmental management, social responsibility, energy efficiency, waste reduction, and cultural preservation. 

Gaining this certification positions W Maldives among a select group of resorts that meet these trusted benchmarks, offering travellers a destination that prioritizes both luxury and long-term sustainability.

Plaza Premium Group (PPG) the global leader in integrated, 360-degree airport hospitality experiences and passenger service solutions, has celebrated the grand opening of the Plaza Premium Lounge Domestic Adelaide – Australia’s only independent domestic lounge facility.

Song Hoi See, Founder and CEO of PPG alongside Brenton Cox, Managing Director of Adelaide Airport, recently cut the ribbon to signify the official opening of the lounge in front of partners, supporters, key stakeholders and media.

PPG continues to broaden its airport lounge footprint across Oceania with the opening of its new domestic terminal lounge, reinforcing an enduring commitment to enhancing the airport experience for every traveller. This lounge complements the brand’s established international lounge at Adelaide Airport.

Located in Domestic Departures, Plaza Premium Lounge Adelaide marks PPG’s inaugural presence in domestic terminals across Oceania, building on its robust international portfolio and longstanding commitment to enhancing airport experiences for every traveller. This new lounge is open to all guests, regardless of airline or travel class, delivering elevated hospitality that’s accessible and appealing, particularly to today’s digital-savvy generation seeking premium service at an affordable price. Every facet of the contemporary lounge reflects South Australia’s warmth and hospitality, offering a tranquil escape that places comfort, style, and convenience at the forefront of the travel experience.

In 2026, PPG will celebrate its 10^th year in Australia—a milestone that underscores its leadership in elevating airport guest experiences nationwide. The Group has built a significant presence in Australia’s major airports, operating six airport lounges across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide. PPG’s Australian story began in 2016 with the debut of Plaza Premium Lounge Brisbane, the country’s first independent international airport lounge and a recipient of the World’s Top 10 Skytrax Award in 2019. The Group is poised to substantially upgrade its Brisbane flagship, further advancing hospitality standards in the region.

Song Hoi-See, Founder and CEO of PPG highlighted the Group’s commitment to Australia’s ongoing growth in aviation and travel. “The debut of Australia’s first independent domestic airport lounge in Adelaide is a defining moment for Plaza Premium Group and for travellers across the country. We are deeply committed to expanding premium, accessible lounge experiences, and Adelaide’s impressive aviation growth made it the natural choice for this launch. South Australia is witnessing remarkable demand for travel, with Adelaide Airport’s network of connections continually expanding. The return and addition of international routes, ranging from Christchurch and Auckland to Hong Kong and Bali, with more destinations such as San Francisco and Shanghai set to join soon, underline the state’s rising influence as a gateway to Australia.

With the opening of our new Plaza Premium Lounge, our aim is to enhance the journey for every passenger—whether travelling for work, leisure, or returning home. It is a privilege to contribute to South Australia’s growth and its standing as a world-class destination.” 

A Fresh Take on Comfort and Design

The Plaza Premium Lounge Domestic Adelaide is thoughtfully designed to reflect South Australia’s warmth and character; the lounge offers a calm and inviting retreat within the heart of the terminal. Natural textures, layered lighting, and a contemporary palette inspired by local landscapes create a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. Guests will find flexible seating, dedicated workstations and high-speed Wi-Fi, all while enjoying a culinary experience that celebrates local flavours and seasonal ingredients.

A Celebration of Local Flavour

Dining at Plaza Premium Lounge Domestic Adelaide celebrates South Australian provenance and seasonal ingredients. The all-day menu features an array of hot dishes, light snacks, artisan pastries, assorted breads, and a dedicated pancake station for breakfast, complemented by local spreads and signature Australian condiments, including Vegemite. The breakfast pizza lineup is led by the signature “Aussie Style” egg and bacon pizza — a local favourite that captures the heart of Australia’s café culture.

During lunch and dinner, hot specialties are served crafted from seasonal farm produce, alongside seasonal soups, complemented by a build-your-own salad station catering to diverse tastes and dietary requirements. Signature pizzas, such as Classic Pepperoni, Meat Lovers and Vegetarian Supreme are all freshly made in the lounge’s open kitchen, showcasing pizza-making in real time.

The experience is rounded off by a thoughtful beverage selection from barista-made coffees and packages offering refreshing wellness drinks to South Australian wines and draught beers that reflect Adelaide’s relaxed yet distinctive culture. The lounge offers Tatachilla House Wine, from the McLaren Vale region in South Australia, one of Australia’s oldest wine-producing areas, renowned for its rich winemaking history. The heritage label is celebrated for its Mediterranean climate and coastal influence, conditions that lend each bottle a distinctive sense of place. 

Supporting Adelaide Airport’s growth

Adelaide Airport welcomed 8.73 million passengers in 2024/25 — an increase of 2.3% from the previous year — serving 17 airlines across more than 35 regional, domestic, and international routes. Its ongoing $600 million redevelopment project, known as Project Flight, is set to bring expanded check-in facilities, new aircraft parking positions, and extended terminals at both ends of the building.

“We’re delighted that Plaza Premium Group has chosen Adelaide Airport for its first domestic lounge in Australia,” stated  Brenton Cox, Adelaide Airport Managing Director. “We think it will attract a wide range of customers, from business travellers, families and those heading off on holidays, by offering a quiet and comfortable sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of a busy airport. It perfectly complements Plaza Premium’s international lounge, offering a seamless and connected experience for everyone.”

Adelaide Airport, a key gateway for South Australia, now accommodates around 523 domestic and 53 international flights each week, and is on track to host 12 international carriers flying to 11 global destinations by year-end, bolstered by several new service launches announced in 2025.

As the latest addition to the Group’s nationwide footprint, Plaza Premium Lounge Adelaide (Domestic) reaffirms PPG’s commitment to redefining the airport experience for travellers across South Australia. The new lounge sets a benchmark for comfort and service, offering all passengers access to world-class hospitality regardless of airline or cabin class.

PATA UK & Ireland has launched this week a new social media series, ‘PATA Presents’, designed to bring quick, fun and informative Pacific Asia content directly to the travel trade. The bite-sized series will cover everything from selling tips and the latest travel trends to topical opinion snippets from agents, members and suppliers across the industry.

Created as an accessible online training tool, PATA Presents aims to further support its members by offering fresh ways to share knowledge, spark conversation and spotlight the voices of agents who engage with Pacific Asia. New content will be added each month, keeping the series fresh, light-hearted and easy to digest.

The series will be shared across PATA’s Instagram and Facebook channels, making it easy for agents to watch, learn and get involved. Those attending upcoming PATA events are encouraged to keep an eye out for the PATA filming crew, who will be capturing contributions for future episodes.