Philippines

CapitaLand Investment's the Ascott Limited, is adding eight new properties to its lyf brand portfolio. The additions mark Ascott’s expansion into various global city and resort destinations including Bali, Penang, and Sydney.

Malaysia led Southeast Asia in foreign tourist arrivals in 2023 with 26 million visitors, followed by Thailand with 24.6 million. Vietnam attracted 12.6 million foreign tourists, reaching only 70% of pre-pandemic levels, while Cambodia's recovery rate was at 92.48%. Vietnam's National Authority of Tourism set ambitious goals for 2024, aiming to match pre-pandemic tourism levels despite past challenges. The Philippines exceeded its 2023 tourism target, welcoming over five million international tourists and surpassing pre-pandemic international tourism revenue. Dusit Hotels and Resorts opened Dusit Princess Phatthalung in Thailand, its first in the far south of the country. Regal Hotels International announced a partnership with Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Investment to build about 100 hotels globally, with a significant focus on the Middle East.

Four Seasons announces two new hotels: Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai, opening in 2027 with 160 rooms and suites, and Four Seasons Hotel Suzhou, now open with 119 rooms, suites, and 11 villas. Marriott International expands in Sydney and Bangkok with the Moxy brand. Moxy Sydney Pitt Street, opening in 2025, will have 314 rooms and the city's highest rooftop bar. Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong, opening in 2024, starts its experience with a 9th-floor bar check-in. IHG Hotels & Resorts opens two new Holiday Inn resorts in Phuket, managed by Destination Group. Holiday Inn Resort Phuket Karon Beach and Holiday Inn Resort Phuket Surin Beach feature over 220 rooms each, with private balconies and extensive amenities.

The Philippine Department of Tourism achieved over 5 million international visitors in 2023, nearing pre-pandemic levels, with a focus on their National Tourism Development Plan 2023-2028. China's tourism rebound is driven by domestic demand, though sustainability into the next year is uncertain. The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels announced executive changes effective 2024, with a formal search for a new CEO.

In China, hotel RevPAR for the week ended December 2nd saw a significant year-over-year increase of 55.6%, contrasting with a -2.6% decline in the previous year. However, compared to the same week in 2019, there was a -7.4% decrease. Marriott International announced the opening of the Courtyard by Marriott Perth, Murdoch in two months. AppleOne Group has started constructing the JW Marriott Panglao Island Resort & Residences in Bohol, Philippines, expected to complete in 2027.

Aman Group is launching a new brand, Janu, in Tokyo with its flagship property featuring luxury amenities, including a large wellness center and various dining options. Several hotel management changes and expansions are announced: Rosewood Hotels & Resorts in New Zealand, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts in Sikkim, India, and Ramee Group of Hotels entering Tamil Nadu, India. New developments and reimaginings in the hospitality industry include Megaworld's new township in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Townplace West Kowloon in Hong Kong launching a new social club, and SAii Resorts in Thailand undergoing extensive renovations.

Notable are the predictions of 3% to 8% hotel rate hikes in 2024, with Asia leading in occupancy growth. Accor's execution of management agreements for 69 properties across Asia, enhancing its portfolio with over 16,500 keys, is a major development. The reopening of the Mandarin Oriental Singapore after a multi-million dollar transformation underscores significant refurbishment investments in the industry.

79% of markets showed growth in Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) compared to 2019, with countries like the United Arab Emirates, South Korea, and Singapore leading. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is set to open over 10 new hotels in Malaysia, and BWH Hotels announced a new upscale hotel in Vietnam, indicating significant growth and investment in the Asian hospitality market. Chinese airlines are canceling flights to Thailand amidst decreasing traveler numbers, despite visa waivers. Meanwhile, the Philippines surpassed its target for international visitor arrivals, with South Korea being the top source market.

China launches a pilot project allowing visa-free travel for visitors from several countries, with Malaysia reciprocating for Chinese and Indian visitors. IHG, Accor, SM Hotels, Hilton, and Artyzen Hospitality Group announce new properties and partnerships across Asia. The former Palazzo Versace in Australia is up for sale with a $100 million price tag.

Today's report highlights significant growth in global search results for inbound travel to China, with Trip.com noting a nearly 40% increase in 3Q23. New properties and expansions are underway, including The Grand Mercure Lampung Hotel in Indonesia and the first Four Points by Sheraton in Kuala Lumpur. The Imperial in New Delhi is undergoing a significant reinvention, including refurbishing historical furniture and revamping its food and beverage operations.