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Dusit International and Grand Land Inc break ground for ASAI Cebu Oslob
Dusit International and Philippine real estate firm Grand Land Inc formally broke ground for the ASAI Cebu Oslob on 3rd February. This new development marks the ASAI Hotels brand’s entry into the Philippines, as well as its first-ever beachfront resort. Located in Barangay Lagunde, Oslob, a premier coastal destination known for its pristine beaches, whale shark encounters, and rich biodiversity both on land and at sea, ASAI Cebu Oslob is planned to open in late 2026. The resort will bring ASAI Hotels' thoughtfully curated, experience-driven hospitality to a stunning beachfront setting, catering to modern, millennial-minded travellers who seek meaningful local connections and adventure. Siradej Donavanik, vice-president for global development and head of culture at ASAI Hotels for Dusit International, said: "Building on the success of our city-based ASAI Hotels in Thailand and Japan, ASAI Cebu Oslob is all about creating an immersive, social, and seamless resort experience in one of the Philippines' most beautiful coastal destinations.” Grand Land Inc president Ryan Bernard Go added: "Our collaboration with Dusit International reflects our vision to create world-class hospitality experiences that go beyond traditional hotel offerings. ASAI Cebu Oslob will offer international standards of service while celebrating the heart of the community, providing guests with truly local and meaningful experiences. With sustainability at its core, this project will not only elevate Oslob's appeal as a premier beach destination but also support its long-term growth by fostering deep connections between travellers and the local way of life." The launch of ASAI Cebu Oslob marks another key milestone in Dusit's ongoing expansion in the Philippines, where the company already operates five properties, including Dusit Thani Manila, Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort, Dusit Thani Residence Davao, dusitD2 Davao, and Dusit Thani Lubi Plantation Resort. Additionally, this project strengthens Dusit's partnership with Grand Land Inc., which is also developing a Dusit Princess branded property in Cebu's North Reclamation Area. Gracious tropical hospitality Thoughtfully designed with 98 compact yet functional rooms, most featuring private balconies with stunning ocean or pool views, the resort will also include a signature communal space integrating ASAI Hotels' Eat/Work/Play concept: an open, flexible area designed for dining, socialising, and remote work. Guests will find a stylish beach bar serving craft cocktails and local beers, an inviting pool overlooking the beach, and a locally inspired dining experience showcasing the finest Cebuano cuisine. Beyond the whale shark encounters Oslob is best known for, guests can immerse themselves in the region's lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant island-hopping experiences, including tours to Sumilon Island, Cebu's first marine sanctuary. To enhance the guest experience whilst fully embracing ASAI Hotels' "Live Local" philosophy, the resort's community ambassadors will also be on hand to curate personalised itineraries that uncover hidden gems, from secret snorkelling spots to cultural heritage sites.
AIDA Cruises begins operations at Oslo on-shore power system
AIDA Cruises and the Port of Oslo recently opened a new on-shore power system meant to supply cruise ships with shore power during their stay in port. AIDA Cruises’ AIDAluna was the first vessel that got fuelled up during the opening ceremony. Among those attending the opening were vice-mayor for culture and business development Anita Leirvik North and Port of Oslo commercial director Einar Marthinussen who welcomed AIDAluna captain Marc-Dominique Tidow to the pier. With the symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony, the shore power system was officially put into regular operation. This was preceded by an extensive test phase, during which AIDAluna had already been successfully supplied with green energy from shore. The system in Oslo is already the fifth shore power system in Norway. A most relevant technology AIDA Cruises senior vice-president for public affairs, communication, and sustainability Dirk Inger said: “We are very pleased to be able to supply our AIDA ships with shore power in the port of Oslo, an important port in Northern Europe. Shore power is a relevant technology for us on the way to net-zero emissions in ship operations. With the commissioning of this system, our cruise ships can now obtain green energy from shore in 12 ports in six European countries.” Marthinussen added: “[The] AIDAbella, was the first to fully connect to this facility. Since then, both AIDAmar and AIDAluna have visited us. Thank you very much for helping to reduce emissions and supporting Oslo’s ambitious climate goals. So far, 20 out of 43 cruise ships have connected to the facility. 2024 was supposed to be a kind of test year, where both the Port of Oslo and the shipping companies would familiarise themselves with the facility. A connection rate of around 50 percent is more than we dared to hope for at this stage.” AIDA Cruises has considered the use of shore power in the planning and construction of its cruise ships since 2004. This technology can significantly reduce local emissions while the ship is in port. AIDA Cruises is continuously expanding the use of shore power thanks to the opening of further facilities in European cruise areas. From 2024, all AIDA ships departing on cruises from German ports can be supplied with shore-side electricity during their laytime. AIDA Cruises has been investing in a future-proof and sustainable cruise market for many years. In addition to the use of shore power and liquefied natural gas (LNG) as an important bridging technology, AIDA Cruises is expanding the use of alternative energy sources to operate its cruise ships. Together with various partners, the cruise company is working intensively on further solutions. As part of Carnival Corporation & plc, AIDA Cruises is aiming for net-zero emissions in the operation of its fleet by 2050.
Oslofjord Convention Center in Norway appoints RMS Cloud to automate bookings
Europe’s largest event village, Oslofjord Convention Center in Norway, has chosen property management software specialist RMS Cloud to automate over 30,000 bookings per year and simplify its upselling capabilities. Oslofjord Convention Centre, a large-scale venue that hosts conferences and events throughout the year, accommodates up to 12,000 guests across a range of inventory from cabins and cottages to hotel rooms and suites. As well as independent lodgings, the site comprises 10 separate hotel buildings, a state-of-the-art conference centre, five large arenas, several restaurants and various indoor and outdoor co-working spaces. Prior to using RMS Cloud’s PMS, the large data sets were being managed and imported manually, a lengthy process that took a lot of time, and was open to human error. The implementation of RMS Cloud’s PMS in February has now automated the bookings process and given the team an easy-to-use system that allows staff to offer guests extra services during their stay. Hans Øyvind Haga, Chief Digital Officer at Oslofjord Convention Center, said: “We needed a robust PMS that could streamline our booking process and ensure it was one hundred percent correct, every time. Having researched a total of 15 vendors and receiving proposals from five, RMS Cloud had the best functionality at the most competitive price point. “As an event destination, we have a unique set of challenges. We recruit and manage a lot of temporary staff according to how many guests are on site and it fluctuates dramatically – some days we have 300 and others 10,000. We don’t have the luxury of spending time training staff on our systems so it was essential that the software we chose was extremely user-friendly. Our team has already reported that RMS Cloud’s PMS is very easy and intuitive to work with. “Adopting this new system has given our staff the tools they need to easily sell extras from reception such as an extra night or more towels. Before the implementation of RMS Cloud’s PMS, this was something that was difficult to facilitate. Obviously, we want to make upselling as easy as possible for our team, so this is a huge benefit.” Oslofjord Convention Center is located in Vestfold, south of Oslo, and hosts large corporate events, conferences, sports events and organisations that want to gather and experience the togetherness by hosting an event with everything at one place. Accommodation for thousands of people, sports arena, two convention centres and large outdoor areas including a beach area. Oslofjord is also a sustainable venue with 95% of energy used on site harvested from renewable sources. Zen Valli, Managing Director of EMEA at RMS Cloud, said: “Oslofjord’s adoption of our software clearly demonstrates the scalability and reliability of the PMS. The size and complexity of the site’s booking demands is unmatched by any other property on the continent and our software is delivering. “It’s an accolade to have Europe’s biggest convention village as a customer and the results they are seeing in just four months is an indicator of how the PMS will continue to support their business.”
From Humor to Hits: How new tourism ads like VisitOSLO’s are redefining destination marketing
Visit Oslo: Embracing Dry Humor Released just last week, “Is it even a city?”, VisitOSLO’s new tongue-in-cheek campaign highlighting Oslo’s revitalization has gone viral. The campaign has now gone viral, gaining 1.5 million views on TikTok, 1.2 million views on Instagram and over 6 million views on X. The ad takes a bold step by mocking itself and the common tourist traps. It humorously highlights the city's less crowded attractions, promoting the lack of lines for food, the freedom to swim wherever you want, and the absence of stuffy museums. This clever use of dry humor not only entertains but also effectively communicates Oslo's unique selling points. It's a breath of fresh air in tourism marketing, demonstrating that authenticity and humor can go a long way in attracting travelers. The campaign subtly promotes sustainable tourism by encouraging visitors to explore less crowded, off-the-beaten-path locations, thereby reducing pressure on popular tourist spots. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vhD59ac7nw&t=16s According to Anne-Signe Fagereng, marketing manager at VisitOSLO, the strategy behind this different and creative approach was to stand out from the crowd. “The reason we dared to use this honest sense of humour in an international campaign is of course to get attention, and it works! This approach is never without risk, but fortunately, we have so far received an enormous amount of positive interest,” she said. Iceland: The "Icelandverse" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enMwwQy_noI Another standout campaign is Iceland's "Icelandverse," a playful parody of Facebook's Metaverse. Released by Inspired by Iceland, the ad features Icelandic actor and comedian Jörundur Ragnarsson, who introduces the audience to the "Icelandverse"—a real-world, immersive experience where you can actually touch and feel nature. The campaign cleverly contrasts the digital, virtual world with Iceland's tangible natural beauty, emphasizing the country's unique landscapes and outdoor activities. By promoting direct engagement with nature, the ad advocates for sustainable tourism practices and highlights Iceland's commitment to preserving its natural environment. The campaign is a brilliant example of how humor and cultural pride can create a memorable and engaging ad while promoting sustainability. New Zealand: Good Morning World https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QenSdr1eb-o&list=PLG6IC2i5BIk7s0VYQz4WzNU9UIImAt5Qs Tourism New Zealand's "Good Morning World" campaign takes a heartwarming and personal approach. The ad features everyday Kiwis greeting the world with a cheerful "Good morning!" from stunning locations across the country. This year-long campaign showcases New Zealand's natural beauty and the warmth of its people, creating an inviting and genuine portrayal of the destination. The simplicity and authenticity of the campaign resonate deeply, offering a stark contrast to more commercialized tourism ads. By highlighting local voices and everyday life, the campaign promotes community-based tourism and sustainable travel, encouraging visitors to engage with local cultures and traditions. Australia: Matesong https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QMAq8F8N2Fg Australia's "Matesong" campaign, released by Tourism Australia, is another example of how to capture attention through creativity and music. Featuring pop star Kylie Minogue, the ad is a musical love letter to the UK, inviting Brits to visit Australia. The catchy song, humorous lyrics, and stunning visuals of Australia's iconic landscapes create an irresistible allure. The campaign cleverly taps into the cultural connection between the two nations, making it both relatable and entertaining. Beyond its entertainment value, the campaign promotes sustainable tourism by showcasing Australia's diverse natural landscapes and encouraging visitors to explore the country's lesser-known regions. Japan: Where Tradition Meets the Future https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLIv7HnZ_fE Japan's tourism campaign, "Where Tradition Meets the Future," showcases the country's unique blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology. The ad features visually stunning contrasts between serene temples and bustling cityscapes, traditional tea ceremonies and futuristic robots. This juxtaposition highlights Japan's diverse attractions, appealing to a wide range of interests. The campaign effectively captures the essence of Japan, making it a compelling destination for travelers seeking both cultural heritage and modern experiences. By promoting both historical and modern attractions, the campaign encourages sustainable tourism practices that respect and preserve cultural heritage while embracing innovation. Sustainable Storytelling in Tourism Marketing These recent tourism ads demonstrate that creativity, humor, and authenticity are key to standing out in a crowded market. By embracing unique approaches and genuine storytelling, these campaigns set a new standard for destination marketing. As travelers increasingly seek meaningful and memorable experiences, these innovative ads not only attract attention but also inspire a deeper connection with the destinations they promote. Moreover, these campaigns highlight a growing trend towards sustainability in tourism marketing. By focusing on local cultures, lesser-known attractions, and environmentally friendly practices, these ads promote responsible travel and encourage visitors to consider the impact of their tourism choices. Connecting with Conscious Travellers These ads resonate with conscious, new-age travelers who seek deeper connections with their destinations, rather than just ticking off popular tourist spots. This trend reflects a growing desire for sustainable and culturally enriching travel experiences. Today’s travelers are looking for authentic encounters that respect local traditions and contribute to the preservation of natural and cultural heritage. As the tourism industry continues to evolve, these innovative campaigns show that the future of destination marketing lies in authenticity, creativity, and sustainability. By setting new standards and pushing the boundaries of traditional advertising, these tourism boards are not only attracting visitors but also fostering a more responsible and sustainable approach to travel. As we look forward to more groundbreaking campaigns, it's clear that the tourism industry is on a path towards creating meaningful and impactful travel experiences that benefit both travelers and local communities.
THAI operates inaugural flights to Milan and Oslo
Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) held the event to celebrate the inaugural flights to Milan and Oslo at the departure terminal, Suvarnabhumi International Airport on 1 July 2024. Piyasvasti Amranand, THAI Chairman of the Plan Administrators, and Police General Visanu Prasattongosoth, Chairman, Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT), presided over the event together with Chansin Treenuchagron, THAI Plan Administrator, Chai Eamsiri, THAI Chief Executive Officer, Kerati Kijmanawat, President, AOT, and Kittipong Kittikachorn, the Director of Suvarnabhumi Airport. THAI and AOT senior management members as well as guests also attended the ceremony. Before boarding, passengers were presented with special souvenirs from THAI. THAI resumes services to Milan and Oslo in response to the increasing travel demand and to seamlessly connect passengers in Thailand and Asia-Pacific with Star Alliance connecting flights from these destinations to other major cities in Europe. Flight details: Bangkok-Milan roundtrip daily flights •TG940 departs from Bangkok at 00.40 hours and arrives in Milan at 07.35 hours (local time). •TG941 departs from Milan at 14.05 hours (local time) and arrives in Bangkok at 05.55 hours. Bangkok-Oslo roundtrip daily flights •TG954 departs from Bangkok at 00.55 hours and arrives in Oslo at 07.25 hours (local time). •TG955 departs from Oslo at 14.15 hours (local time) and arrives in Bangkok at 06.15 hours.
Oslo’s Sommerro announces the launch of Villa Inkognito in 2023
As the second stage in its exciting launch, Sommerro, Oslo’s newest luxury hotel, has announced the opening of Villa Inkognito in April 2023. One of the most anticipated launches for 2023, the urban retreat is located next door to Sommerro, in the heart of Frogner in Oslo’s West End. Housed in a former private residence dating back to 1870, the villa was originally built by architect Thøger Binneballe as an office space for Oslo Lysverker administration, the city’s original electrical company, before housing the Algerian embassy from 1980. Now part of Sommerro, this iconic building has come full circle with a new lease on life as a private villa available to book in its entirety. Offering the ultimate in seclusion, with its own dedicated hidden entrance, guests will benefit from their own personal host throughout the duration of their stay, who will remain on-hand to ensure all needs are met. Separate to the main building, this 11-suite retreat will boast several opulent living rooms, including a library, snug room, meeting-and dining room space, an open kitchen, an intimate bar, a fitness room in the basement and an outdoor area. Guests will be able to enjoy the privacy of their own villa with full access to all of the amenities and services offered at Sommerro. Providing a home away from home for both travellers and locals, the iconic 231-room Art Deco hotel is complete with seven restaurants and bars, meeting and event spaces with capacity for up to 150 people, a 100-seat gilded theatre, a landmark wellness space featuring historic public baths, and the city’s first year-round rooftop pool, sauna, and terrace. Guests staying at Villa Inkognito will be able to arrange private dinners and order in-suite dining from the best of Sommerro’s food and beverage offerings, while also having the opportunity to enjoy in-room wellness treatments from the experts at Vestkantbadet. Best-known for their elaborate, detailed, and meticulously researched designs, GrecoDeco will once again head up the interiors, embellishing the spaces with a mix of antiques, original artwork, decorative details and classic Scandinavian furnishings. The villa’s thoughtfully designed bedrooms and electically themed public areas, are inspired by a range of eras including Classic Norwegian, Art Nouveau, Arts & Crafts and a bit of Japonisme, all rooted in the history of the building. Guests can imbibe cocktails among the spirits in the Villa’s intimate Ghost Bar, with mosaic floors combining Golden Onyx with Norwegian Granites, silver gilt walls, and antique light fixtures. The bedrooms boast opulent details and lush textiles, such as custom-designed furnishings with marquetried details recalling 19th century Norwegian motifs, bespoke hand-knotted rugs, beds from innovative Swedish sleep brand Hilding Anders, and dreamy bathrooms with custom tiles.
Art deco masterpiece Sommerro officially opens its doors in Oslo
Nordic Hotels & Resorts has announced the grand opening of its newest luxury hotel, Sommerro, located in the heart of Frogner in Oslo’s West End. One of Europe’s most anticipated launches of 2022, the urban retreat is set within the former headquarters of Oslo Lysverker, the city’s original electrical company, and is energising the neighbourhood and its surroundings with a new sense of creative spirit that pays tribute to Norway’s cultural heritage. Providing a home away from home for both travellers and locals, the iconic 231-room Art Deco hotel is complete with 56 branded residences, seven restaurants and bars, meeting and event spaces with capacity for up to 150 people, a 100-seat gilded theatre, a landmark wellness space with a fully-equipped gym, and the city’s first year-round rooftop pool, sauna, and terrace. “Sommerro is more than a hotel. It is an iconic building housing years of history, located in one of Oslo's most vibrant and exciting areas. We want everyone to feel at home at Sommerro, whether you are a guest or a local seeking a place to hang out with friends, work, or simply relax in beautiful surroundings,” said Petter A Stordalen, Founder of Nordic Choice Hotels, now known as Strawberry. “We believe that Sommerro will take Oslo to the next level of hospitality, and I am really looking forward to opening the doors to this fantastic project, bringing the building back to life for more generations to come.” Sommerro pays homage to a fusion of neoclassical contemporary aesthetics with original historic elements that have been meticulously restored and developed by local firm LPO Architects in collaboration with New York- and London-based studio GrecoDeco. Sommerro was designed as a community which extends into all aspects of its design, with diverse areas that feel approachable and welcoming to all. The hotel’s thoughtfully designed social spaces and six varied guest room categories, from snug Loft rooms to lavish Junior and Heritage Suites, are embellished with opulent Art Deco details and lush textiles, including oak parquet flooring, custom-designed furnishings upholstered with 1930s Norwegian motifs, hand-knotted rugs, beds from innovative Swedish sleep brand Hilding Anders, and slick bathrooms with custom tiles. Curated by internationally acclaimed museum director and art critic, Sune Nordgren, the hotel is adorned with an extensive art collection by emerging local artists. The contemporary collection is complimented with a host of original artworks from the 1930s iconic Norwegian artist Per Krohg, including a giant wall fresco in the main hall, a ceiling mural that nods to the building’s heritage highlighting life after the wonders of electricity, and a mosaic feature wall in the basement of the former public baths. Art enthusiasts can enjoy hosted show-rounds of Per Krohg’s collection by local museum curators and the hotel can also arrange private guided tours of Art Deco artwork in the nearby newly opened National Museum. As the second stage in this exciting launch, Sommerro will open Villa Inkognito in March 2023. Housed in a former private residence that dates back to 1870, this 11-suite retreat is adjacent to the hotel with a private entrance and will offer the option to be rented in its entirety. The villa will boast several opulent living rooms, an open kitchen, an intimate bar, a fitness room in the basement and a lovely outdoor area. Its interior design will feature a mix of magnificent antiques, original artwork, decorative details and classic Scandinavian furnishings. Guests can enjoy the privacy of their own villa with full access to all of the amenities and services offered at Sommerro. Villa Inkognito bookings are now open.
Feel like a local! VisitOSLO and The Trip Boutique join hands for AI-based personalisation of travel experiences
The Trip Boutique and VisitOSLO, the official marketing organisation for Oslo, announced the launch of a partnership by which VisitOSLO will offer custom-made itineraries supplied by The Trip Boutique. The personalised Oslo itineraries matching the visitors’ interests, styles and tastes can be requested free of charge on VisitOSLO’s official website and on The Trip Boutique website. With this launch, The Trip Boutique adds Oslo to its growing list of destinations like Zurich, Paris, Berlin, London, Lisbon, Copenhagen and Helsinki. “We think long-term and want to test innovative methods such as The Trip Boutique’s to prepare for a post-pandemic world, in which travellers will be looking for more guidance and better quality in their travels,” said Anne-Signe Fagereng, director of marketing at VisitOSLO. Fernanda Barrence Mutz, founder and CEO of The Trip Boutique added: “Our unique technology allows for hyper-personalisation of the travel offer and this will enable travellers to enjoy Oslo the way that fits them best. By creating itineraries based on travellers’ individual interests and preferences, we inspire them with the right reasons to leave the comfort of their homes to go out and discover. At the same time, we help DMOs showcase the destination in a new way and get better visitor insights.”
Largest bookshelf for the future! Oslo’s new public library has finally opened
Strengthening Norway’s position as a cultural hotspot, Oslo’s new public library, Deichman Bjørvika, has finally opened its doors for the public of Oslo and visitors to the Norwegian capital. Through the last decade Oslo has transformed into an urban fjord city with an abundance of cultural highlights and iconic landmarks, like the Opera House, the Astrup Fearnley Museum and the Barcode district. And more is still to come. “The opening of the new Deichman library in Oslo is an important contribution to strengthen Norway’s position as a cultural destination. I look forward to experience the library at Bjørvika, and to the further expansion of the Oslo skyline in the coming months, when the new Munch Museum and the new National Museum will open their doors,” said Bente Bratland Holm, director of tourism at Visit Norway. Bjørvika has truly been transformed into a modern borough with fascinating architecture and great outdoor spaces. This area of the Oslo harbour was once known for a major highway junction and a container port. Today, the highway is gone and the containers have been replaced with shops and restaurants, office and apartment buildings, galleries and an art hotel. It even has beaches and a seawater pool, Oslo’s first urban farm and some very popular urban saunas. Located in the harbour of Oslo, just a few steps away from Oslo Central Station and the Opera House, the new Deichman Bjørvika, designed by architects Lundhagem and Atelier Oslo, will be almost impossible to miss for visitors arriving in Oslo’s city centre by bus, tram, train or boat. The library will be an exploration of what a library can be. Stretching over six floors and 13,500 square meters (approx. 140,000 square feet) you will find books, of course – 450,000 of them – but also other offers and activities, like a children’s section with playful hiding places, technology and knowledge in all forms; and on the fifth floor, a magical little room dedicated to the unique art project Future Library.
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