Ascott Launches Citadines-ClassPass Partnership to Enhance Guest Experience

Ascott Launches Citadines-ClassPass Partnership to Enhance Guest Experience

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on October 4, 2024

The Ascott Limited (Ascott), a lodging business owned by CapitaLand Investment (CLI), has announced a global partnership between its Citadines brand and ClassPass, a popular subscription service that provides access to a wide network of fitness studios and gyms. This is Citadines' first global collaboration with a fitness service since launching its "activ∞" initiative in 2022, and it marks the largest partnership for ClassPass in the hospitality industry.

The partnership is aimed at promoting active living for guests of Citadines properties. "activ∞" offers curated amenities and programs designed to support guests in staying active and exploring city life. With a rising focus on wellness, the wellness tourism market is projected to grow substantially, according to the Global Wellness Institute (GWI). The institute forecasts that spending in the wellness tourism market will grow from $651 billion in 2022 to $1 trillion by 2024, and the physical activity industry is expected to grow annually by over 6.7%, reaching $1.4 trillion by 2027.

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From October 15 to December 14, 2024, guests staying at Citadines properties and members of Ascott Star Rewards (ASR), Ascott's loyalty program, will enjoy enhanced benefits from ClassPass. During this campaign, new ClassPass members can get a complimentary one-month membership to access fitness classes at different gyms and wellness centers across various markets, including Asia Pacific, France, and the United Kingdom. In China, the campaign, which began on September 26 and runs until November 30, offers ASR members discount codes for ClassPass sessions. Additionally, new ClassPass members in China who join ASR will receive a 75% discount on their first stay at participating properties.

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Following the promotional campaign, Citadines properties in Asia Pacific will gradually be added to the ClassPass app, allowing ClassPass members to book fitness facilities like pools and gyms. This partnership aligns with the activ∞ initiative, giving guests convenient access to wellness amenities as they live, work, and relax.

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Ms. Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer at Ascott, said, "In line with its brand tagline 'For the Love of Cities,' Citadines aims to delight guests by showcasing the best of urban living and inspiring them to live, work and play in infinite ways through curated, unique stay experiences. As Ascott celebrates 40 years of hospitality in 2024 with our 'Ascott Unlimited' campaign, we are excited to announce this inaugural global brand partnership between Citadines and ClassPass to promote 'activ∞ Unlimited.'"

Expanding Fitness Options Through activ∞ Unlimited

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In addition to the ClassPass partnership, Citadines properties worldwide hosted more than 200 fitness activations from August 1 to September 30, 2024, as part of the activ∞ Unlimited campaign. Each property curated activities to suit the unique character of its city. Examples include the ColorFest Electric Night Run at Citadines Bay City Manila, water sports packages at Citadines Qingshanhu Hangzhou in China, and foosball tournaments across Germany.

Properties in various locations, including the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore, partnered with fitness studios to offer classes such as yoga, Pilates, and body combat. Hiking and cycling tours were also offered in the UK and Vietnam.

For the Love of Coffee

Another major initiative under the Citadines brand is the "For the Love of Coffee" campaign, celebrating International Coffee Week, starting October 1, 2024. More than 210 activities across Citadines properties are inviting coffee lovers to experience themed events.

- Unlimited Connections: Activities like free coffee for local drivers at Citadines Connect Georgetown Penang and latte art training sessions with certified baristas in Indonesia aim to foster connections among guests and locals. Other activities include coffee painting and culinary sessions in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Singapore.

  - Unlimited Experiences: Citadines properties will work with local coffee shops to give guests an authentic local coffee experience. For instance, properties in Singapore and Cambodia will offer complimentary local coffee to guests each morning.

- Unlimited Discoveries: To encourage exploration, properties in Vietnam, Singapore, and China will serve free local coffee to help guests start their day. Guests at Citadines properties in Vietnam can also participate in activities like using coffee grounds for potted plants.

For more information visit website

About Ascott

Ascott, founded in Singapore, has become a trusted hospitality company since the launch of Asia Pacific’s first international-class serviced residence, The Ascott Singapore, in 1984. Today, the company has a global presence, with more than 950 properties in over 230 cities across 40 countries.


Rest and Reset in Luxury at the World's Best Spas

Rest and Reset in Luxury at the World's Best Spas

By Hariharan U

Published on October 24, 2025

In today’s fast-paced world, carving out time to rest and rejuvenate has never been more essential. From the rolling hills of South Wales to the bustling medinas of Morocco, and even the icy expanses of Antarctica, spas across the globe are redefining wellness with innovative treatments that promise to elevate the conventional spa experience.

UK and Ireland

Ellenborough Park, Cotswolds offers an ultimate retreat for relaxation, combining nature and technology in its tranquil Spa Garden Retreat. Guests can enjoy six treatment rooms, thermal suites, a heated outdoor pool, and a Scandinavian sauna designed for digital detox. The retreat also introduces an ice bath for cold-water therapy and exclusive touches like a rare Taittinger yacht box. Ellenborough Park recently launched its Japanese Head Spa, a TikTok-trending hair and scalp treatment, offering one of the few such experiences in the UK.imageThe Vineyard, Berkshire presents a five-star spa retreat amidst the scenic South of England, perfect for wine lovers and wellness enthusiasts alike. Its award-winning spa partners with Irene Forte Skincare and Elemental Herbology to offer bespoke treatments, including the Forte Face and Body Ritual, age-defying Etna facial, and hot and cold stone massages. Guests can also relax in a rejuvenating Jacuzzi or indulge in personalized wellness therapies. imageThe Montenotte, Cork offers an urban spa oasis at the Bellevue Spa, where guests can enjoy deep tissue massages, holistic body treatments, customized facials, and therapeutic sessions in the Himalayan Salt Room. The spa also features a pool, sauna, and jacuzzi within The Motion Health Club. 

Malta and ItalyimageTreville Positano’s La Traviata Spa on the Amalfi Coast provides a serene retreat surrounded by natural beauty. Housed in a greenhouse once used as part of an opera set, the spa offers Thai and holistic massages, facials, exfoliation treatments, a sea-view cold plunge pool, Turkish bath, private relaxation area, and a state-of-the-art gym. imageIl Salviatino, Florence combines history and wellness in its Aquae Vitali Spa, offering Kneip showers, infrared sauna, hammam, steam rooms, hydromassage pool, and ice bath. Guests can experience bespoke wellness programs including crystal therapy and cacao ceremonies tailored to sleep, detox, and emotional balance. imageIniala Harbour House, Valletta features the Essensi Spa set in historic 17th-century vaults, blending contemporary design with ancient architecture. Guests can choose from over 80 treatments, including Thai, Asian, and Ayurveda therapies, alongside bespoke scrubs and oils at the Herbal Bar. 

AfricaimageLa Sultana Marrakech, Morocco offers a world-class spa in the heart of the medina, featuring individual hammams, balneotherapy baths, saunas, and massage cabins. Guests can enjoy the Royal Hammam and traditional Moroccan treatments using locally sourced oils. imageLa Sultana Oualidia, Morocco provides a tranquil coastal escape with cathedral-inspired spa facilities, including an indoor pool, hammams, jacuzzi, sauna, and fitness room. Treatments incorporate organic oils, rose, almond, lemon, and orange blossom aromas for a holistic wellness experience. imageO&L Leisure, Namibia integrates wellness into four distinct properties: Strand Hotel Swakopmund, Mokuti Etosha, Midgard, and Chobe Water Villas. Guests can enjoy spa treatments, fitness facilities, nature-based activities, and immersive wellness experiences connected to the country’s landscapes. 

AntarcticaimageWhichaway Camp, White Desert is introducing a Wellness Dome overlooking glacial landscapes, allowing guests to practice breathwork, meditation, and connect with nature. A biokineticist and dedicated instructor will guide wellness activities in this remote setting. 

From the ice baths of the Cotswolds to hammams in Morocco and wellness domes in Antarctica, these spas showcase the diverse ways global destinations are reimagining relaxation, offering guests unparalleled opportunities to reset, rejuvenate, and reconnect with themselves.


Antara Cruises Strengthens Sustainable Tourism at Bhitarkanika

Antara Cruises Strengthens Sustainable Tourism at Bhitarkanika

By Hariharan U

Published on October 20, 2025

Antara Cruises, a leading name in India’s luxury river tourism, continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainable travel at Bhitarkanika National Park. The cruise operator has implemented strict cleanliness and waste management measures at the Gupti jetty and during all guest excursions.

The team ensures that the entire jetty area, from entry gates and access stairs to the boarding point remains spotless, free from litter such as plastic bottles and wrappers. Onboard garbage is carefully collected and brought back to land for disposal in dustbins provided by the Forest Department.

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Extending their eco-responsibility further, naturalists and forest guides accompanying guests actively pick up any plastic or waste encountered during jungle walks, ensuring it is properly discarded in designated bins.

Bhitarkanika is one of India’s most pristine and biodiverse mangrove ecosystems. Our team takes immense pride in preserving its purity by maintaining high standards of cleanliness and environmental care,” said Vineet Arora, Chief Operating Officer, Antara Cruises. “At Antara, sustainability is not an initiative, it’s an integral part of how we operate and engage with nature.”

These efforts highlight Antara’s leadership in responsible river tourism, blending authentic exploration with respect for the environment and local communities. Guests can enjoy immersive journeys through India’s iconic rivers while being assured that their travel footprint is minimized.

About Antara Cruises

Antara Cruises is India’s premier luxury river cruise company, offering unique voyages across the country’s most iconic rivers. With a focus on sustainability and cultural immersion, Antara combines refined comfort with conscious travel practices to provide experiences that celebrate India’s heritage, nature, and craftsmanship.


Ridhira Group to Build Luxury Resort and Global Wellness Centre in Telangana

Ridhira Group to Build Luxury Resort and Global Wellness Centre in Telangana

By Hariharan U

Published on October 3, 2025

Ridhira Group has announced plans to develop Ridhira Zen, a flagship luxury wellness project in Telangana, after receiving the official Letter of Award from the state’s Youth Advancement, Tourism, and Culture (YATC) Department.

The ambitious development, set near Shankarpally in Ranga Reddy District, involves an investment of approximately Rs 200 crore. Spread across six acres, Ridhira Zen will feature a 5-star branded resort, a 10,000 sq. ft. Global Wellness Centre and Spa, upscale villas, and premium plots. Once complete, it is expected to become the region’s largest wellness-centric resort and a landmark in India’s growing wellness tourism sector.

Highlighting the vision behind the project, Ritesh Mastipuram, Founder and Managing Director, Ridhira Group, said, “We are delighted to receive this government recognition for our visionary project, as it reinforces our long-term commitment to revolutionize wellness hospitality in Telangana. This development, with its unprecedented scale and investment, is designed to set new benchmarks in sustainable luxury and holistic living, combining innovation with deep respect for nature and well-being. With the government’s proactive support, we are confident of ensuring timely and seamless execution, and we look forward to contributing meaningfully to the region’s overall growth, while also shaping Telangana’s reputation as a global destination for wellness tourism.”

The project reflects Ridhira Group’s focus on integrating wellness, sustainability, and modern luxury into hospitality. It also strengthens Telangana’s positioning as a hub for world-class tourism and wellness experiences.

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