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Enter the Dragon: IndiGo’s China Delhi-Chengdu route
IndiGo is set to start a daily non-stop flight on the Delhi-Chengdu route from September 15 onwards. While also operating to five other international destinations in Asia, this flight will make Chengdu, the airline’s 19th international destination. This will be the first non-stop service between Chengdu to India. "We are providing the much-needed connectivity between the two destinations." William Boulter, chief commercial officer, IndiGo said, “India is witnessing a much higher growth rate with respect to aviation and currently the India-China route is underserved by Indian carriers. With our plan to operate non-stop daily flights to Chengdu, we are providing the much-needed connectivity between the two destinations. China is a market with immense potential and holds prominent trade, cultural and tourism values. We hope to further strengthen this relation by announcing our entry into China.” Boulter added, “IndiGo will continue to expand its network to meet the requirements of both business and leisure travellers wherever they demand it. It is our constant endeavour to provide more flexibility of choice to our customers as IndiGo continues to offer them on-time, courteous and hassle-free service, and an affordable flying experience.” IndiGo said that it would be opening the sale of tickets for flights on the Delhi-Chengdu route as soon as it secures the requisite regulatory approvals.
Hilton opens first upscale international hotel within Chengdu district
Chengdu, China Hilton has announced the opening of Hilton Chengdu Chenghua, a 15-storey, full-service hotel — the first and only upscale international hotel within the district. Owned by Chengdu Sincere Real Estate Co. Ltd and managed by Hilton, the hotel is located within the Second Ring Expressway with close proximity to a major metro station. Hilton Chengdu Chenghua provides convenience for exploring the city's cultural and entertainment attractions such as Taikoo Li, Chunxi Road, Kuanzhai Alley and Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding — all within a 30-minute drive. “A key economic growth engine in Southwest China” "Chengdu not only enjoys rich culture and abundant natural resources but is also a key economic growth engine in Southwest China, presenting Hilton with immense opportunity to satisfy growing hospitality demands in the region," said Qian Jin, area president, Greater China and Mongolia, Hilton. "Hilton continues its strategic expansion in Chengdu with the debut of the brand's eighth hotel in this central neighbourhood, standing as a beacon of hospitality as it sets the benchmark for unparalleled comfort and sophistication." Hilton Chengdu Chenghua Hotel features and amenities include 298 guest rooms featuring bathrooms with separate bathtub and rain shower and floor-to-ceiling windows; three restaurants and a lobby bar; a 24-hour fitness centre; and 1,650 square metres of total meeting space. “The first and only upscale international hotel within the district” "Boasting an excellent location and easy access to entertainment and attractions in vibrant Chengdu, Hilton Chengdu Chenghua is the first and only upscale international hotel within the district," said Sean Wooden, vice president of brand management, Asia Pacific, Hilton. "We are excited to introduce Hilton's flagship brand and its exceptional service to the city, allowing discerning travellers to take advantage of Hilton's leading hospitality wherever they want to be."
Anantara enters untapped market in Chengdu, China
Artist's rendering of the Anantara Jinsha Chengdu Hotel Anantara Hotels and Resorts has announced plans to diversify its portfolio in China by launching a luxury hotel brand in the Qingyang District of Chengdu, with the opening of Anantara Jinsha Chengdu Hotel. Currently operating 39 hotels and resorts in 13 countries across the Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Europe, Africa and the Indian Ocean, Anantara Hotels and Resorts announced its plans to expand the brand’s presence in China this week. Anantara Jinsha Chengdu Hotel will join the group’s existing China portfolio, comprising Anantara Sanya Resort on Hainan Island, Anantara Xishuangbanna Resort in Yunnan, and Anantara Guiyang Resort in Guizhou Province. "Responding to demand in a way that places us firmly as a strong market leader" Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels, owner of Anantara Hotels and Resorts, commented: “We are excited to announce the first Anantara in Chengdu, China, in partnership with Chengdu Tai Hang Rui Hong Real Estate Co., Ltd. This addition to our portfolio demonstrates our commitment to growth in up and coming destinations, while foreseeing and responding to demand in a way that places us firmly as a strong market leader in the Asia Pacific, and beyond.” Anantara Sanya Resort on Hainan Island Anantara Jinsha Chengdu Hotel will feature 150 guestrooms and suites, an all-day dining restaurant and specialty restaurant, a lobby lounge and bar / tea lounge, a gym and fitness facility, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, a spa, children’s club, additional recreational and leisure facilities, along with banqueting and meeting facilities. The hotel is positioned to capitalise on Chengdu’s fast growth, which, at present, offers no upscale and luxury hotels, nor international branded hotels. The new property is expected to be the first luxury and upscale brand in the growing and well-connected part of town, catering to high-end leisure and business travellers. In addition, Anantara Jinsha Chengdu Hotel is less than an hour’s drive from the high-speed Chengdu Railway Station, the Chengdu City Centre and the Chengdu Shangliu International Airport. Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan Province, serving as the economic, commercial, financial, transportation and communication centre of southwest China. Ranked as China’s 12th most competitive city, over 150 of the world's 500 largest companies currently have subsidiaries or branch offices in the city.
More than 1300 delegates attend 22nd UNWTO General Assembly in Chengdu
13 Sep 17 More than 1300 delegates from over 130 countries attended the opening of the 22nd session of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) General Assembly in Chengdu, China this morning. During the next four days, the priorities of the Organization for 2018-2019, the transformation of the UNWTO Code of Ethics for Tourism into an International Convention and the impact of technology on tourism will centre the discussions. On the agenda of the Assembly is also the election of the Secretary General for the next four years. “China is an inspiration to others in terms of its supportive tourism policies and in placing tourism at the centre of its poverty alleviation and national development strategies,” said UNWTO Secretary-General Taleb Rifai at the opening of the 22nd session of the General Assembly. “Besides being the fourth most-visited country in the world, with 59 million international arrivals in 2016, China is also the largest domestic tourism market, with 4.4 billion trips made within its borders,” he added. The Secretary-General also recalled the relevance of having this General Assembly, the last of his mandate, under the framework of the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development 2017. “I feel very proud to have contributed to expanding the capacity of travel and tourism to the progress of the SDGs that guide our common action to 2030. This General Assembly is a unique opportunity to continue advancing together,” he said. Wang Yang, Vice-Premier of the People’s Republic of China, recalled that, since the inclusion of China in UNWTO in 1983, the tourism sector has grown to represent 10% of the country’s economy. Vice-Premier confirmed that “smart tourism” will guide the development of the sector and highlighted the need to enforce policies to enhance sustainable tourism. The Vice-Premier also mentioned that the inherently sustainable approach to tourism in China resulted from the traditional harmony between man and nature widely present in Chinese culture. In addition, he underlined the relevance of increasing cooperation among countries in the field of tourism, especially in crisis situations such as natural disasters. He further noted that 6 million jobs related to tourism have been created in 2016 in China, particularly for women, people with disabilities and rural communities. “I feel very proud to have contributed to expanding the capacity of travel and tourism to contribute to the SDGs that guide our common action to 2030,” said UNWTO Secretary-General Taleb Rifai “UNWTO is irreplaceable for its role of supporting the multiple dimensions of the tourism sector as well as its wide potential,” he added. The UNWTO General Assembly will discuss the Chengdu Declaration on ‘Tourism and the Sustainable Development Goals’. The document, in which the potential of the tourism sector is underlined in economic, social and political terms, includes 19 articles that, among others, recommend to governments “to develop an integrated and holistic approach to tourism policy in order to leverage the sector’s positive impact and multiplying effect on people, planet and prosperity (Article 1).” In addition, it proposes “to undertake national assessments on tourism’s contribution and commitment to the SDGs and ensure the inclusion of tourism in interministerial SDG commissions and/or working groups as well as to enhance the contribution of tourism in SDGs national strategies through the set-up of institutional frameworks and mechanisms that allow participation of all stakeholders.” The High-Level Segment discussed ‘Tourism and the Sustainable Development Goals’ “To advance, the tourism sector should decouple growth from environmental harm; fight climate change throughout the entire tourism value chain; measure the impacts of travellers every day accurately and regularly, and promote accessibility for all,” stated Rifai. “Furthermore we need to ensure the benefits of the sector reach communities, and prevent negative impacts on their social fabrics by tackling issues such as overcrowding, protect the weak from being exploited in our sector, prevent leakages and address global and tourism-sector security challenges without compromising people’s rights, particularly to freedom of travel and movement,” he added. High level debate on Tourism and the Sustainable Development Goals The opening of the 22nd session of the UNWTO General Assembly was followed by a high level session on tourism and the Sustainable Development Goals and Building Partnerships for Development: The Example of the Belt and Road Initiative, conducted by Richard Quest of CNN International. Among the participants were: Taleb Rifai, Secretary-General of UNWTO; Li Jinzao, Chairman of the China National Tourism Administration (CNTA); His Majesty King Simeon II, Special Ambassador of the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development; Sandra Howard, Vice-Minister of Tourism of Colombia; Abulfas Garayev, Minister of Tourism of Azerbaijan; Pascal Lamy, the World Committee on Tourism Ethics; Mohammed Yehia Rashed, Minister of Tourism of Egypt; Lamia Boutaleb, Secretary of State for Tourism of Morocco; Ephraim Kamuntu, Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities of Uganda; Benito Bengzon Jr., Undersecretary for Tourism Development Planning of the Philippines; George Chogovadze, Head of the National Tourism Administration of Georgia; Gloria Guevara Manzo, President and CEO of WTTC; and Ambassador Eric Jakob, Head of the Promotion Activities Directorate, State Secretariat from Switzerland. “Growth and sustainability should go hand-in-hand. Recent protests in cities are the evidence that growth should be sustainable. But growth is not the enemy, as it is the story of humankind. We need to take local communities into account,” said Rifai. The debate on the SDGs was followed by a session dedicated to the Belt and Road Initiative where the discussion focused on the characteristics of this initiative. Among the speakers were: UNWTO Secretary General Taleb Rifai, CNTA Chairman Li Jinzao, Oleg Safonov, Head, Federal Agency for Tourism of the Russian Federation, Roland Ratsiraka, Minister of Tourism of Madagascar, Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism of Cambodia, Nikolina Angelkova, Minister of Tourism of Bulgaria, John A. E. Amaratunga, Minister of Tourism Development, Christian Religions Affairs and Lands of Sri Lanka Askar Batalov, Deputy Minister of Culture and Sport of Kazakhstan and István Ujhelyi, Vice-Chair of the Committee on Transport and Tourism/Chair Tourism Task Force at the European Parliament. Additional information: More about the 22nd session of the General Assembly Opening Speech of Taleb Rifai, UNWTO’s Secretary General Photos of the official opening of the General Assembly Photos of the General Assembly in UNWTO's Flickr official account Media Resources Contacts: UNWTO Media Officer Rut Gomez Sobrino Tel: (+34) 91 567 81 60 / rgomez@unwto.org UNWTO Communications & Publications Programme Tel: (+34) 91 567 8100 / Fax: +34 91 567 8218 / comm@UNWTO.org
Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel launch extensive China holidays portfolio
Aerial view of Chongqing skyline and river scenery in the early morning Thomas Cook (India) Limited have announced the strategic relaunch of China as a key holiday destination for Indian travellers. This move is backed by a series of positive developments, including the strengthening of diplomatic relations between India and China, resumption of direct flight connectivity and a relaxed visa approval process — all contributing to a renewed travel demand among Indians. This growing interest is reiterated by Thomas Cook India and SOTC’s internal data, with departures selling out well in advance, even during a traditionally low-season (October-November). Capitalizing on this strong consumer sentiment, the Companies have expanded their China holidays portfolio with a comprehensive suite of itineraries designed to appeal to a wide segment of customers from multi-generational families, Young India’s GenZ and millennials, working professionals, frolleagues, couples, seniors and solo travellers. The enhanced China portfolio blends popular attractions with exciting new destinations and experiences. While favourites like Shanghai’s futuristic skyline, iconic Bund waterfront, Xi’an’s Terracotta Army, and Beijing’s Great Wall and the Forbidden City remain central, the portfolio introduces culturally rich and fresh locales such as Chongqing, a striking “5D” city known for its cyberpunk skyline and LED-lit night cruises; Chengdu, home to the Giant Panda reserves and celebrated for its Sichuan cuisine and teahouse culture; and Zhangjiajie, the mystical mountain range that inspired Avatar, featuring glass bridges and mountain elevators. Travellers can look forward to unique experiences including a ride on the world’s fastest train – the Shanghai Maglev, immersive storytelling at Chongqing 1949’s 360° rotating theatre, spectacular drone shows at Yangtze River waterfront and river cruises, Michelin-starred dining, and private Baijiu distillery sampling. For their Group Tours, Thomas Cook India and SOTC feature travel via high-speed trains, including the popular Xian–Beijing route. Enhanced comfort is ensured through porter services at major train stations and pre-planned menus that blend Indian favourites with regional Chinese cuisine – with Indian chefs flown in exclusively to cater to vegetarian preferences and the Indian palate. Additionally, the portfolio has multi-destination tours to China-Japan for the Cherry Blossom season. In addition to leisure travel, China’s advanced infrastructure, expanding flight connectivity and return of trade events are also driving strong potential across both business travel and the MICE segment. With cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Chengdu emerging as key hubs, Thomas Cook India and SOTC are witnessing increased interest from corporates for business travel as well as for meetings, incentive programs, and conferences. Rajeev Kale - President & Country Head, Holidays, MICE, Visa - Thomas Cook (India) Limited said: “Announcement of direct flight connectivity has opened the doors to China and driven consumer interest. Leveraging on this opportunity, we have enhanced our China portfolio to go beyond the conventional, introducing new regions and experiences that resonate with India’s new age holidaymaker. In parallel, China’s evolving landscape also positions it as a high-potential MICE destination. With world-class venues and unique incentive experiences, we see strong scope to scale our MICE business in the region.” S.D. Nandakumar - President & Country Head, Holidays and Corporate Tours - SOTC Travel Limited said: “China’s re-emergence as a preferred destination is a significant opportunity. With direct connectivity restored and traveller confidence on the rise, our expanded portfolio offers Indians a seamless blend of China’s iconic landmarks and exciting new experiences. From group tours to customised holidays, we’re delighted to bring China back on the travel map for our customers. We also see growing traction for MICE, with organisations seeking culturally rich and high-impact destinations for their events and incentive programs.” Indiver Rastogi, President & Group Head, Global Business Travel - Thomas Cook (India) & SOTC Travel Limited, said: “Strengthened bilateral ties and the return of trade events are driving business travel momentum, with Chinese cities emerging as key hubs for business travel. In addition to business trips, we are also excited to see increased interest in ‘Bleisure’ travel for China.”
Chapman Freeborn accelerates expansion into China
Global air charter specialist Chapman Freeborn formally opened its new office in Zhengzhou last 13th October, accelerating its expansion within the Chinese Mainland. The Zhengzhou facility is the company's sixth in China and operates alongside its counterparts in Beijing, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Shenzhen. The new office was opened following the recruitment of its team in September, and builds upon Chapman Freeborn’s efforts to gain a secure foothold in China, which date back all the way to 2004. According to Chapman Freeborn president in Greater China Allen Liu: “The new team in Zhengzhou will help us further develop our market resources across the country, enhance regional service capabilities, and boost response times. As a result, we’ll be able to deliver even more professional, timely, and efficient air cargo solutions to our clients there. Why Zhengzhou? Zhengzhou was chosen due to its strategic location at the very heart of China, and its proximity to Xinzheng International Airport, which has a strong track record in handling outsized, irregular, and heavy-lift cargo, as well as standard e-commerce parcels and express shipments. An additional factor behind the decision was the office building’s close proximity to Zhengzhou East Railway Station and key cargo operators like SF Express and Cargolux. The local team will be guided by Huizi Zhao (Bella Zhao) who recently joined Chapman Freeborn as the company’s manager for Central Greater China. Her responsibilities involve leading Chapman Freeborn’s charter and freight forwarding operations, driving commercial development, and ensuring high-quality delivery across the region. Zhao said of her appointment: “I am honoured to join Chapman Freeborn to leverage the Group’s domestic and international resources to lead the Zhengzhou team with determination. By partnering closely with our five regional teams, we’ll be able to expand our commercial footprint, as well as ensure professional and efficient project delivery, bringing solutions and services to clients with genuine care." Under her leadership, the team will be focusing on expanding the Group’s partner network across Central China and providing a broader set of services to its clients in Greater China.
Radisson Hotel Group secures over 210 signings and openings for 2025
With more than 210 signings and openings already secured this year, the Radisson Hotel Group is steadily advancing its transformation towards becoming one of the world’s most prominent hotel companies. This ongoing transformation is anchored to a portfolio designed for today’s travellers and tomorrow’s priorities. According to Radisson’s executive vice-president and global chief development officer Elie Younes “So far, the year has seen Radisson Hotel Group succeeding in our pursuit of excellence for customers and owners. Hotel openings have been carefully curated to what business and leisure travellers are seeking in 2025, and we have a very strong pipeline of hotel signings and anticipated openings.” A great year for Radisson RED Radisson RED’s bold personality is gaining global momentum, with new hotels signed and opened across the UK, Romania, India, UAE, and Thailand. The brand reached a milestone with the opening of Radisson RED Oslo City Centre, A Verified Net Zero Hotel, the Group’s second Verified Net Zero hotel, underscoring its leadership in sustainable hospitality. In London, the brand will debut in the heart of the city minutes from Liverpool Street Station through a partnership with PPHE Hotel Group, while in Rome, the art’otel Rome Piazza Sallustio introduced a striking design-led landmark. Radisson Individuals gains ground Radisson Individuals has gone from strength to strength, offering crucial flexibility to Group stakeholders and growing to over 100 hotels in operation and under development since its launch in 2020. This year alone, the brand expanded its footprint across France, Portugal, Germany, Malta, and Kazakhstan, with new signings secured in the UK, Poland, Spain, Greece, Kyrgyzstan, Türkiye, India, and the Philippines. Recently, the brand’s emphasis on empowering owners and broadening guest choice has been cemented with the introduction of three exciting brand segments: Premier, Boutique, and Retreats. A stronger flagship At the same time, the Radisson brand continues to evolve with a mix of sustainability milestones and market firsts. Radisson Hotel Manchester City Centre, A Verified Net Zero Hotel opened as the Group’s first Verified Net Zero hotel while the brand entered new markets such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Armenia, and Madinah, Saudi Arabia. In the UK, Radisson will anchor a landmark all-electric stadium development for Oxford United Football Club, setting a new benchmark for future-ready hospitality. Growth across APAC has been equally dynamic, with 13 new Radisson properties opening in India, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam. With the demand for leisure travel rising, Radisson Hotel Group continues to expand its resort portfolio, now comprising more than 160 properties. New openings and signings stretch from Asia to Europe, including across destinations as diverse as Vietnam, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, Montenegro, Poland, Romania, Egypt and Armenia. Highlights include Radisson Hotel Cannes on the French Riviera, Radisson Collection The National Hotel, Brussels, a landmark golf-side retreat, and the debut of Radisson Collection Resort, Galle in Sri Lanka and Radisson Collection Resort & Spa, Jaipur in India. Together, these properties underscore the brand’s commitment to creating standout resort destinations in diverse and inspiring locations. Growth by region Europe, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, and Africa In EMEA, Radisson Blu is cementing its position as Europe’s leading upper-upscale brand, with landmark signings and openings in France, Germany, Türkiye, and Montenegro. Among the highlights is The Medlock at Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium, an innovative partnership that redefines what a stadium hotel can be. Later this year, Radisson Blu CDG Airport Terminal Hotel, Paris will welcome travellers at one of Europe’s busiest gateways. France has proven to be a key growth market across the Group’s portfolio, with luxury lifestyle brand Radisson Collection leading the charge. This year saw the long-awaited opening of Cour des Loges Lyon, A Radisson Collection Hotel and the signing of the historic Banke Opera Paris, A Radisson Collection Hotel, which will debut in 2026. The brand furthermore marked its arrival in Hungary with Radisson Collection Hotel, Basilica Budapest, a property that perfectly synthesizes historic grandeur with contemporary luxury, and reopened the Radisson Collection Hotel, Berlin in spectacular style. These milestones reinforce Radisson Collection’s role as the Group’s showcase for design, heritage, and modern hospitality. In Africa, the Group is keeping its momentum by combining new market entries with deeper investment in key markets such as Morocco, South Africa, and Nigeria. Recent activity includes its debut in the Democratic Republic of Congo with Radisson Blu Hotel, Kinshasa, and Radisson Hotel Lubumbashi, as well as Radisson Blu Hotel & Apartments, Yaoundé in Cameroon. The Group has also entered Zimbabwe with Radisson Harare and is exploring further opportunities in the Victoria Falls area, alongside growth targets of 30 hotels in Morocco and 25 in South Africa by 2030. China, India, and the Asia-Pacific APAC continues to propel growth for the Radisson Hotel Group. In China, 130 hotels have been signed and opened in 2025, pushing the pipeline close to 300 hotels. Expansion is strongest in the mid- to upper mid-scale categories, led by Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, now the fastest-growing brand in China with a portfolio of 375 hotels. Major cities such as Wuhan, Beijing, Chongqing, Chengdu, Tianjin, and Shanghai remain central to the Group’s growth plan and expansion strategy, supporting both scale and depth across the market. India has emerged as one of Radisson Hotel Group’s most dynamic markets, with the company surpassing a historic milestone of 200 hotels. Today, more than 130 properties are in operation and over 70 are under development, reinforcing the Group’s position as the leading organically growing international operator in the country. Fuelled by 59 new signings in just 18 months and expansion into 47 new cities, Radisson Hotel Group is well-positioned to deepen its presence and extend hospitality access with up to 500 hotels in the region by 2030.
Hilton celebrates surpassing 888 trading hotels in China
Hilton announced the grand opening of Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan and celebrated its milestone of 888 trading hotels across Greater China and Mongolia. This achievement reinforces Hilton’s position as the largest and fastest-growing international hospitality company in the region with the company on track to double its presence in the region in the coming years. Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan After opening its first hotel in Chinese Mainland in 1988, Hilton has grown its room inventory nearly tenfold in the past 12 years. In a sign of continued momentum, Hilton recently announced several key new signings in the luxury and lifestyle segments, as part of its plans to exceed 100 luxury and lifestyle hotels across Greater China in the coming years. The new additions to the pipeline include: Waldorf Astoria Shenzhen (2028) - Located in the heart of the Shenzhen Bay Super Headquarters Base, this landmark property will redefine luxury hospitality in one of China’s most innovative cities, reflecting Waldorf Astoria’s global leadership in sophisticated design, intuitive service, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. LXR Hotels & Resorts in Tianjin (2029) - A bespoke luxury experience celebrating Tianjin’s East-meets West heritage through immersive design and storytelling. Conrad Zhoushan (2028) - Offering rare access to the sacred Putuo Mountain, the hotel will feature panoramic sea views from its rooms and villas. Hyssan Hotel Quanzhou,Curio Collection by Hilton (2026) - Situated in the city’s CBD and adjacent to urban cultural landmarks, the hotel draws inspiration from the historical harbourfront, incorporating distinctive, high-end design to present a multi-dimensional interpretation of the modern Maritime Silk Road culture. Curio Collection by Hilton in Shanghai Yuqiao (2026) - Hilton’s first Curio Collection hotel in Shanghai, showcasing local cultural appeal in a modern way in a premier destination. This comes as Hilton recently announced plans to surpass 250 luxury and lifestyle hotels across Asia Pacific in the years ahead with more than 1,000 such hotels already trading globally and a further 500 in the pipeline around the world. Alan Watts, president, Asia Pacific, Hilton, said: “Reaching 888 hotels in China is a powerful symbol of Hilton’s deep-rooted commitment to this dynamic market. China continues to be a key part of our long-term growth strategy as demand for travel and experiences continues to rise. Our bold plans to double our presence over the coming years reflects our optimism for the growth prospects in the country as we accelerate into the new era of hospitality.” Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan sits on the southern stretch of Shanghai’s new Bund, in the vibrant Qiantan District of Pudong. The hotel offers 204 expansive rooms and suites starting at 52 square meters, featuring panoramic river views and generous balconies, creating private, intimate spaces for guests to unwind against a backdrop of Shanghai’s skyline. The dining experience shines with multiple highlights. Arame presents a fresh take on Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with local produce; at Fu Cheng, Michelin-starred chef Justin Yang showcases refined Min cuisine rooted in Quanzhou traditions; the Starlight room offers a reservation-only chef’s table, featuring an open kitchen and private terrace; and the iconic Peacock Alley offers a refined setting for connection, celebration and indulgence. The property’s debut marks a significant chapter for Waldorf Astoria in Shanghai, as the third city worldwide to have two Waldorf Astoria properties, following Dubai and Doha. Over the past 15 years, Waldorf Astoria has built a portfolio of five hotels across the country – Shanghai on the Bund, Beijing, Chengdu, Xiamen, and now Shanghai Qiantan – each embodying the brand’s heritage of effortless luxury. “The presence of these two grand luxury icons in Shanghai is a powerful signal of the depth and breadth of opportunities in China’s hospitality landscape. Our growth in China is a testament to the strength of our award winning brands, the trust of our owners and partners, the dedication of our team members, and the strong following we’ve built with our customers. From luxury to focused service, we’ve built incredible momentum across the country, driven by our long-term commitment and founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality,” said Qian Jin, president, Greater China and Mongolia, Hilton. Hilton’s business in China spans 11 award-winning brands across more than 280 destinations, offering the most reliable and friendly stay experiences that meet the evolving preferences of Chinese travelers - whether for leisure or business. Hilton represents an incredible engine of opportunity for 70,000 team members in China, with corporate offices in Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, Chengdu and Nanjing. Hilton’s hotels participate in Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 25 distinct hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, exclusive member discounts, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors mobile app.
Swire Hotels unveils Upper House, a new chapter for The House Collective
Swire Hotels today unveils Upper House, a global brand uniting its acclaimed House Collective properties and signaling a bold phase of international growth. Building on the worldwide success of Upper House Hong Kong, ranked top five in the World’s 50 Best Hotels for two consecutive years, and recognition in the inaugural global MICHELIN Keys selection, existing Houses in Hong Kong (Two Keys), Chengdu (One Key) and Shanghai (One Key) will all be renamed Upper House. Future openings in Shenzhen, Xi’an, Tokyo, and Bangkok will follow this unified approach, setting the stage for future growth driven by a clear vision, extending the brand’s presence across international markets. This strategic move unifies The House Collective’s refined and exceptional properties under a singular, globally resonant brand, signaling a new era for the group. Rooted in the brand’s ‘Houses not Hotels’ philosophy, Upper House delivers hospitality that is unscripted, authentic and deeply personal. From architecture and interior design to cuisine and wellness offerings, no two Houses are alike. Each property is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the distinctive spirit and culture of its local surroundings, brought to life by personalities who make guests feel truly at home. By taking Upper House as the name across the group, the brand embeds its core values of thinking differently and aiming higher into its very identity, expressing these ideals across every touchpoint from first encounters to lasting impressions. Upper House will also introduce the brand’s philosophy to residential living in Bangkok in 2030 with Upper House Residences, marking a major brand expansion and the brand’s debut in Southeast Asia. Reflecting the growing global demand for branded residences linked to trusted luxury names, Upper House Residences will offer discerning buyers a luxury home, including the seamless integration of world-class amenities, services and property management, all bound together by the exceptional guest experience for which Upper House is known. “The rebrand heralds a new chapter for Upper House as a single, iconic brand,” said Dean Winter, Managing Director of Swire Hotels. “Guided by the same passion, precision, and incredible people who shaped our vision of hospitality over almost two decades, the Upper House experience remains unexpected and personal, where genuine hospitality, thoughtful design and unscripted service create something truly memorable.” Upcoming openings Shenzhen (2027) Designed by German architecture firm Büro Ole Scheeren, Upper House is in the heart of Shenzhen Bay, offering seamless connectivity across the Greater Bay Area. Xi’an (2028) Designed by award-winning Japanese architect Shigeru Ban and interior design firm LAYAN, Upper House is located within the Small Wild Goose Pagoda historical and culture zone, part of Taikoo Li Xi’an. Tokyo (2029) Designed by Norwegian architects Snøhetta, Upper House will be located in the fashionable neighborhood of Shibuya. Bangkok (2030) Upper House’s first branded residences, Upper House Residences, designed by Foster + Partners, situated in one of Bangkok’s most prestigious addresses.
Cathay Group releases traffic figures for September 2025
The Cathay Group released its traffic figures for September 2025 earlier today, 22nd October. The ninth month of the year typically marks a quieter period for the aviation firm’s travel business following the end of the summer travel peak. Nevertheless, the Cathay Group continued to see year-on-year growth in the total number of passengers carried throughout the month. Group chief commercial officer Lavinia Lau declared: “Cathay Pacific and HK Express carried a combined total of over 2.7 million passengers, 20% more than September 2024. Meanwhile, heading into the traditional air cargo peak season in September, Cathay Cargo carried over 130,000 tonnes of cargo, slightly higher than the same period last year.” Lau added that Cathay announced non-stop passenger flights between Hong Kong and Changsha last month, with flights taking off from 4th November. This new route brings the Group’s overall Chinese Mainland network to 24 destinations. Lau said: “Cathay Pacific is also increasing frequencies on other Chinese Mainland routes including Beijing, Guangzhou, Chengdu and Shanghai this coming winter season, and as a Group we will be operating more than 330 return flights per week between Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland.” September 2025 in the numbers Cathay Pacific Cathay Pacific carried 21 percent more passengers in September 2025 compared with September 2024, while Available Seat Kilometres (ASKs) increased by 20 percent. In the first nine months of 2025, the number of passengers carried increased by 27 percent compared with the same period for 2024. According to Lau: “As the busy summer travel months drew to a close, we saw a shift to the outbound student travel peak in September ahead of the new school year, with our outbound flights from Hong Kong to the United Kingdom in particular achieving high load factors. Meanwhile, travel demand for Japan also rebounded strongly in September, with passenger volumes surpassing those of the same period last year supported by connecting traffic from our network. In addition, the load factor for our premium cabins reached the highest of any month so far this year, driven by various exhibitions in Hong Kong and fashion weeks in Milan and Paris. We also saw robust traffic from the Chinese Mainland to Hong Kong and Southeast Asia prior to the National Day holiday period.” For now, demand is building up for Christmas and the year-end holidays, and Cathay Pacific will continue to add more flights and destinations in the coming months to give its customers greater choice and connectivity. HK Express HK Express carried close to 530,000 passengers in September 2025, an increase of 16 percent year on year, while Available Seat Kilometres (ASKs) grew by 11 percent. In the first nine months of 2025, the number of passengers carried increased by 31 percent compared with the same period for 2024. Lau explained: “For HK Express, September was a quieter month after the summer peak, although we observed a stronger pick-up in demand towards the end of the month coinciding with the National Day holiday. On the airline’s Japan routes, although passengers carried surpassed that of the same period last year, demand has not yet caught up with capacity growth.” Cathay Cargo Cathay Cargo carried one percent more cargo in September 2025 than in September 2024, while Available Freight Tonne Kilometres (AFTKs) increased by four percent. In the first nine months of 2025, the total tonnage increased by ten percent compared with the same period for 2024. Lau said: “While tonnage in September declined against the previous month due to the impact of typhoons, it continued to rise year-on-year as a result of the additional capacity we provided. Our Cathay Expert and Dangerous Goods solutions also recorded double-digit growth, driven by machinery movements within Northeast Asia and exports of newly launched high-tech products from the Chinese Mainland and Southeast Asia.” She added that the Group observed solid demand during the National Day holiday, added a new seasonal freighter service to Madrid, and is set to provide customers with more capacity to and from this important European market during the traditional peak months.
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