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.

MSC Group’s Cruise Division has introduced Sandy Cay, a new luxury private island destination in The Bahamas, set to open in 2028. Located near Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the island is designed to offer a more exclusive and immersive experience for guests travelling with MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys.

Sandy Cay is planned as a quieter extension of Ocean Cay, giving travellers a more relaxed and intimate environment. The island focuses on connecting guests with nature, offering a peaceful setting shaped by the natural beauty of the surrounding ocean.

One of the defining features of Sandy Cay is its pristine aragonite sand, known for being among the purest and brightest in the world. This gives the island its name and creates a calm and scenic atmosphere. The concept has been carefully developed to offer a balance of comfort and simplicity while staying aligned with the natural surroundings.

The new destination will work alongside Ocean Cay, adding another layer to the overall experience. While both islands share the same clear waters of The Bahamas, Sandy Cay will focus more on privacy and a slower pace, offering guests a different way to explore the region.

Alongside this announcement, MSC Cruises has also shared plans to upgrade Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. The enhancements will include new dining options, dedicated beach areas for families and adults, expanded relaxation spaces, and interactive experiences linked to marine conservation.

These developments reflect the group’s approach of evolving its destinations while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability and environmental care. The aim is to offer guests a mix of relaxation, exploration, and meaningful engagement with nature.

With Sandy Cay set to open in 2028, MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys are continuing to expand their private destination offerings, creating a seamless connection between experiences at sea and on land. The addition is expected to further strengthen their position in the global cruise market while offering travellers a more refined and nature-focused holiday experience.

Fusion Hotel Group in Vietnam is marking Hung Kings' Commemoration Day and the April 30 holiday with a range of curated experiences across its properties. From beachside retreats to city stays, the group is offering guests multiple ways to celebrate, relax, and explore during the festive period.

Guests can also make the most of their stay with Fusionlife membership benefits, which include up to 25% savings on room bookings, spa treatments, and dining experiences.

At Grand Royal Riverside Hue – Fusion Collection, located in the historic former imperial capital, guests can enjoy two specially curated menus at Jade & Ginger restaurant. The “Pha Tam Giang” menu highlights the essence of Hue cuisine, while a Mediterranean menu brings in Italian and French influences. Prices start from VND 650,000 per set, including a complimentary beverage. For relaxation, Sả Wellness offers a 75-minute treatment starting from VND 750,000, combining sauna and personalised therapy options. Guests can also try “A Tale of Two Times” afternoon tea at The Amber Lounge.

At Alba Wellness Valley by Fusion, the focus is on complete rejuvenation. Guests can enjoy natural hot springs, Japanese-style onsen, and the brand’s signature “breakfast anytime, anywhere” concept. Wellness programs are designed to restore balance, with room packages available per night for two guests.

Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang introduces a Japanese dining experience at Fresh restaurant, available for both lunch and dinner. The menu features premium seafood and imported ingredients, including salmon and tuna, with prices starting from VND 1,600,000 per set along with two complimentary drinks. Spa services such as facial care and foot reflexology are also available.

At The Ocean Resort by Fusion Quy Nhon, guests can enjoy a lively and family-friendly setting. A foam party at the central pool adds a fun touch, while complimentary yoga sessions and spa discounts offer moments of relaxation. Special dining experiences include a chicken set on April 30 and a hotpot dinner on May 1, perfect for families and groups.

Fusion Resort Cam Ranh brings a flavourful “Steak Night” experience at its oceanfront Fresh restaurant every Tuesday and Thursday. Guests can choose from premium meats such as Black Angus flank steak, Wagyu striploin, and Spanish pluma pork. The “Farmers Platter to Share,” priced at VND 999,000, includes a variety of meats along with sausages and two glasses of red wine.

In the city, Fusion Suites Sai Gon is offering up to 50% off room rates and 30% savings on hotel services, valid until Sept. 30. Meanwhile, Miss Thu restaurant at Fusion Original Saigon Centre presents “The Taste of Unity” menu, celebrating regional Vietnamese flavours. The dining experience starts from VND 1,000,000 per person and includes dishes like yellowfin tuna, braised beef, and traditional desserts, along with views of fireworks in the city.

HIIVE by Fusion Binh Duong New City hosts its weekly “Grill & Chill” BBQ at Zest restaurant every Friday evening, offering a mix of Asian dishes, grilled meats, seafood, and desserts.

Fusion Suites Vung Tau is offering complimentary room upgrades until May 31, 2026, along with 30% off massage treatments at Maia Spa. Guests can also enjoy the “Patriotic BBQ – Wagyu Night” on April 30 at KAIUN Lounge, with panoramic views of the bay or city.

At Ixora Ho Tram by Fusion, a special campaign titled “Chief Chill Officer” celebrates the resort’s two-millionth guest. Guests who share their stay experiences can stand a chance to win a three-day, two-night stay in the Presidential Suite for four, along with dining and spa benefits. The second prize includes a one-night stay with added experiences.

With a mix of wellness, dining, and festive celebrations, Fusion Hotel Group is offering guests a well-rounded holiday experience across Vietnam this April.