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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on April 21, 2026
The Ascott Limited has recorded its strongest-ever signing performance in Southeast Asia in 2025, adding more than 7,300 units across the region. This marks a 55% increase compared to the 4,700 units signed in 2024, highlighting a significant growth phase for the company.
This momentum has placed Ascott among the top three hospitality companies in Southeast Asia for new signings in 2025, according to Horwath HTL. The company currently has over 200 operational properties in the region, along with a pipeline of around 150 properties. With more than 25 new openings expected in the next 12 months, the pipeline reflects steady owner confidence and Ascott’s ability to convert signings into operational properties.
A key highlight of this expansion is Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi, located on the shores of West Lake in Hanoi’s Tay Ho District. Positioned as Ascott’s largest full-service MICE hotel, the property will feature 1,165 rooms, 10 food and beverage concepts, and a spa when fully operational in 2027. It also includes an international convention centre with 13 event spaces, including one of the largest pillarless ballrooms in Hanoi.
Ascott’s growth is supported by strong tourism recovery across Southeast Asia, driven by rising regional travel demand and improved connectivity. At the same time, the hospitality market remains fragmented, creating opportunities for established brands like Ascott to expand through both new developments and conversions.
Ms Serena Lim, Chief Growth Officer, Ascott, said: “Southeast Asia continues to be one of the most dynamic hospitality markets in the world and Ascott is well positioned to capture the opportunity. With over four decades in our home base, we have established deep market expertise and a trusted brand presence, positioning us for our next phase of growth. Our expansion is intentional and owner-led, anchored by long-term partnerships with owners who value our flex-hybrid model and its ability to deliver resilient outcomes. Supported by our multi-typology brand strategy, we have moved beyond our serviced residence heritage to unlock opportunities across a broader range of lodging types. The depth of owner interest and track record across Southeast Asia gives us confidence in both our pipeline and our ability to execute this expansion.”
Ms Wong Kar Ling, Chief Strategy Officer and Managing Director, Southeast Asia, Ascott, added: “The upcoming wave of openings reinforces Southeast Asia's role as both a core growth engine and a showcase for Ascott's multi-typology brand strategy. As we scale across cities and resort destinations, disciplined execution remains our focus, from efficient conversions to reliable delivery on the ground. The strength of our local teams has been instrumental in translating strategy into outcomes, turning pipeline into reality with the speed and precision our owners and guests expect. We are particularly excited about our upcoming resort openings across the region, which will meaningfully expand our leisure offerings and open up new destinations for Ascott Star Rewards members to explore and enjoy their rewards.”
As part of its expansion, Ascott is entering around 20 new cities across Southeast Asia, including destinations such as Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Phuket, Hat Yai, Labuan Bajo, Medan, Davao, Biñan, Johor Bahru, and Langkawi. This move takes the brand beyond established markets into emerging leisure and business destinations.
About 30% of the pipeline will be driven through conversions, allowing Ascott to reposition existing properties under its brands and speed up market entry. Projects like Citadines Mitra Bandung, Oakwood Pandanaran Semarang, and Fox Hotel Nagoya Batam are expected to open within a year of signing, showing the efficiency of this approach.
The pipeline also reflects Ascott’s multi-typology strategy, covering serviced residences, hotels, resorts, social living spaces, and branded residences. Brands such as Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection, and The Unlimited Collection are all part of this expansion. Resort developments are expected to play a major role, helping balance the company’s presence across business and leisure segments.
Among the upcoming openings, Lasong Hotel & Villas Sam Son by The Unlimited Collection is set to complete its full opening on 24 April 2026, offering a wellness-focused experience on Vietnam’s northern coast. HARRIS Resort Cam Ranh, expected to open from 4Q 2026, will introduce the HARRIS brand to Vietnam with a large-scale beachfront property designed for leisure travellers.
Other notable projects include the 1926 Heritage Hotel Penang by The Unlimited Collection, opening in 2026 with a restored heritage setting, and lyf Chinatown Singapore, scheduled for July 2026, offering a social living concept in a culturally rich neighbourhood. Somerset Clarke Quay Singapore and Ascott Ortigas Manila are also part of the upcoming portfolio, adding to the brand’s presence in key urban markets.
With this strong pipeline and continued expansion across markets and formats, Ascott is steadily strengthening its position in Southeast Asia, supported by a mix of new developments, conversions, and experience-led properties.
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Published on May 11, 2026
Fairfest Media has announced the appointment of Simon Press as Managing Director – International, marking an important step in the company’s global growth strategy following its recent acquisition of WTE Miami.
In this newly created role, Simon Press will lead Fairfest’s international business portfolio with a focus on expanding WTE Miami into a leading global travel trade event. He will also play a major role in identifying and bringing high-potential international event intellectual properties (IPs) into India, one of the fastest-growing exhibition markets globally.
Simon will be based across Miami, London, and Mumbai while overseeing the company’s international operations and strategic growth initiatives.
Bringing more than two decades of experience, Simon has worked extensively in launching, scaling, and managing large-scale international exhibitions and B2B media brands across Europe and the Middle East. Most recently, he managed a portfolio of leading European technology events. Prior to that, he held senior leadership positions at globally recognised travel industry exhibitions, where he handled growth strategies, international partnerships, and expansion across multiple markets.
Commenting on the appointment, Sanjiv Agarwal, Chairman & CEO of Fairfest Media, said,
"Simon's appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Fairfest as we expand our global footprint. His extensive experience in leading world-class exhibitions and building global platforms aligns perfectly with our vision. We are confident that under his leadership, WTE Miami will scale rapidly and I am equally excited about the new opportunities we will unlock together to bring world-class shows to India."
Sharing his thoughts on joining the company, Simon Press said,
"Fairfest has built a remarkable reputation as a leading trade show organiser in Asia, and the acquisition of WTE Miami creates a compelling global platform to build on. I look forward to growing WTE Miami into a truly global event and exploring new opportunities to connect international markets with India's rapidly expanding exhibition ecosystem."
With this appointment, Fairfest Media aims to further strengthen its presence across the United States, Europe, and Asia. The company is also actively engaging with global event organisers for co-development and co-investment opportunities in high-potential event IPs within India, backed by its strong local expertise and decades of industry experience.
By Hariharan U
Published on May 10, 2026
Manoli is set to open in early summer 2026, bringing the authentic flavours and spirit of the Greek islands to Miami’s Coconut Grove neighbourhood.
Led by Greek Chef Emmanouil Aslanoglou, the restaurant is rooted in traditional Greek culinary heritage while shaped by global experience across some of the world’s most acclaimed kitchens. Chef Aslanoglou’s journey spans Greece, the UK, Spain, and the United States, including roles at renowned establishments such as Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons and Arzak, as well as leadership positions in leading Greek restaurants.
Manoli is conceived as a table-first dining experience, where shared plates and communal eating reflect the warmth and hospitality of Greek culture. The restaurant features approximately 140 seats across indoor, outdoor, and bar spaces, designed as a neighbourhood destination that transitions seamlessly from daytime dining to lively evening gatherings.
The menu reflects a deep connection to Greek culinary tradition while embracing modern interpretation. Guests can begin with small plates such as Dolmades, Saganaki, Crispy Feta with thyme honey, Keftedes, Mediterranean Mussels, and Gyro Tacos made with Black Angus ribeye. A raw bar selection includes Bigeye Tuna Tartare, Beef Tartare, and seasonal oysters, alongside classic Avgolemono soup prepared with roasted chicken, egg, and lemon.
The offering expands into housemade pastas including Pastitsio, Makarounes, and Athenian Lobster, followed by grilled specialties such as Greek-style lamb chops, prime beef, Whole Branzino, and rotating fresh fish selections. Traditional sides like Lemon Potatoes, Horta Chicory, and hand-cut fries complete the experience.
A standout feature of the restaurant is its Dessert Trolley Service, designed to bring a theatrical, shared-dining finish to the meal. Tableside selections include Baklava, Profiteroles, Chocolate Cake, Crispy Cream Custard, and Yogurt with Preserves, along with warm Greek donuts served fresh from the kitchen.
The beverage program, titled Sober Souls Diaries, is curated by Greek Beverage Manager Fotis Mexi and draws inspiration from classical Greek tragedy, with cocktails such as Hybris, Eris, and Mira, alongside a curated selection of Greek wines and inventive mocktails.
Speaking about the concept, Chef Aslanoglou said, “Manoli is deeply personal to me. It reflects the way I grew up eating in Greece—food made with care and meant to be shared. I wanted to bring that feeling to Miami, where every table feels like home and every meal feels like a celebration.”
With its focus on authenticity, storytelling, and shared dining, Manoli aims to introduce a transportive Greek island experience to Miami, blending culture, cuisine, and hospitality into a cohesive neighbourhood destination.
Published on May 9, 2026
As Tomorrowland prepares to return in 2026, Revel Travels is continuing its role as the exclusive official travel partner for India and the UAE, further strengthening a partnership that has developed steadily over the years.
Held in Boom, Tomorrowland has grown far beyond a music festival to become one of the world’s most recognised cultural experiences, bringing together music, large-scale stage productions, storytelling, and immersive entertainment. The 2026 edition will take place across two weekends, from July 17–19 and July 24–26.
For travellers from India and the UAE, Revel Travels plays a key role by offering official ticket access sourced directly from Tomorrowland. In a market where demand remains extremely high and ticket authenticity is often a concern, this official allocation gives travellers added confidence and reliability.
The company’s 4 Nights / 5 Days travel packages, and are designed as complete travel experiences rather than simple bookings. Guests can choose from multiple stay options, including the immersive DreamVille camping experience, centrally located hotels, and premium luxury stays such as Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp. The portfolio also includes exclusive private villas that are generally difficult to access for regular festival attendees.
At the premium end, the experience extends into luxury hospitality offerings with private villa buyouts, curated hosting environments, private boxes, and exclusive tables. These experiences can move into five-figure USD pricing, catering to travellers looking for privacy, elevated service, and premium festival access. Dedicated transfers, priority movement, and specialised pick-up and drop-off arrangements are also included for premium-zone guests.
A major focus of Revel Travels’ offering is creating a seamless journey for travellers. From visa support and round-the-clock on-ground assistance to personal delivery of Tomorrowland bracelets directly to hotels or DreamVille campsites, the company aims to simplify every stage of the experience.
Festival access is available through two pass categories, Full Madness Pass and Full Madness Comfort Pass, giving guests the option to choose between standard and upgraded entry experiences.
Speaking about the company’s approach, Sahil Wahid, Director, Revel Travel, said, “We've built our reputation on one simple promise, authentic access. Every ticket we provide comes directly from Tomorrowland through an official allocation, which removes the uncertainty that often surrounds high-demand global events. For our travellers, that assurance is as important as the experience itself.
We've always focused on simplifying what is otherwise a complex global experience. Tomorrowland is something people plan for years in advance. Our role is to ensure that once they decide to go, everything else, from access to on-ground execution, feels effortless and reliable.”
As global demand for Tomorrowland continues to grow, Revel Travels has positioned itself as more than a travel company, offering travellers curated access to one of the world’s most sought-after festival experiences.
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