“Discover Your Korea” Captivates the Midwest and the West

“Discover Your Korea” Captivates the Midwest and the West

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on May 8, 2024

Recently, Chicago and Los Angeles were abuzz with excitement as the "Discover Your Korea" events unfolded, offering a captivating glimpse into the vibrant culture of South Korea. Hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism along with the Korea Tourism Organization, these events aimed to showcase the allure of Korea as a premier travel destination, particularly to the Midwest and Western US regions.

In Chicago, “Discover Your Korea” took center stage at the Blackstone Hotel, drawing travel industry professionals from across the Midwest. Jaesok Park, executive director of the Korea Tourism Organization's NY Office, expressed enthusiasm about bringing Korea's vibrancy to Chicago and fostering stronger ties with key decision-makers in the region: “We are thrilled to bring a glimpse of the vibrant destination of Korea to Chicago and showcase the unique adventures that await visitors. The Midwest market is incredibly important to us, and these promotional events will strengthen our connections with key decision makers with the goal of inspiring more visitors to experience Korea firsthand.”

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With the number of U.S. tourists visiting Korea surpassing pre-pandemic levels, the event capitalized on this momentum, highlighting Korea's appeal as a top travel destination. Attendees immersed themselves in Korea's captivating history, K-pop culture, and cuisine while enjoying performances by Korean musicians and dancers.

Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, “Discover Your Korea” event unfolded at the JW Marriott LA Live, offering participants an enriching journey into Korean culture. Business meetings, seminars, and cultural activities captivated the imaginations of over 160 participants from the Western US B2B Tourism Industry.

Distinguished speakers from leading airlines and tourism organizations highlighted the significance of regional tourism resources, while attendees experienced traditional Korean attire, calligraphy, and gift-wrapping firsthand.

The event culminated in an extravagant dinner banquet featuring a keynote speech by Chan Ho Park, the first South Korean Major League Baseball player, who shared inspiring anecdotes from his personal journey and career: “We appreciate the collaboration of all our partners and look forward to even more prominent and dynamic tourism activities this year.” 

Heejin Cho, the executive director of international marketing of Korea Tourism Organization, said, "We are so happy with the great turn out and the continued interest in Korea as one of top travel destinations. We appreciate the collaboration of all our partners and look forward to even more prominent and dynamic tourism activities this year."

Korea’s diverse attractions, from the bustling streets of Seoul to the tranquil shores of Jeju Island, were showcased, inviting travelers to explore this dynamic destination further.


Laguna Lang Co Launches Summer “Stay & Play” Golf & Lifestyle Packages

Laguna Lang Co Launches Summer “Stay & Play” Golf & Lifestyle Packages

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 13, 2025

Laguna Lang Co, Vietnam’s premier integrated resort, is inviting travellers to enjoy the summer with enticing Stay & Play packages that combine world-class golf, luxury accommodation, and exclusive lifestyle experiences.

At the core of these offers is the stunning Sir Nick Faldo Signature golf course, an 18-hole championship layout ranked among Asia’s best. This scenic course winds through jungle-covered mountains, rice paddies, lagoons, and oceanfront dunes, providing a rewarding challenge for golfers of all levels.

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Guests can choose from two tailored golf holiday packages, available at either Angsana Lang Co or Banyan Tree Lang Co:

  • The 3-night package starts at USD 1,325 at Angsana and USD 2,360 at Banyan Tree. It includes two rounds of golf, spa treatments, daily breakfast, a set dinner, airport transfers, and access to resort activities.

  • The 7-night package begins at USD 4,427 at Angsana and USD 6,825 at Banyan Tree, offering four rounds of golf, five dining experiences, a local discovery tour, and additional indulgences.

Guests at Banyan Tree Lang Co, known for its all-pool-villa accommodations, enjoy extras such as a dedicated villa host, private in-villa check-in, daily afternoon tea, and nightly turndown gifts. Meanwhile, Angsana Lang Co provides stylish rooms, wellness offerings, and family-friendly amenities just steps from the beach.

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“This is one of the best value luxury golf and lifestyle packages in Asia,” said Gavin Herholdt, Managing Director of Laguna Lang Co. “Whether for a romantic getaway or a group golf trip, our packages offer championship golf, exceptional service, and unforgettable natural beauty.”

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Herholdt added, “Our integrated resort means guests can enjoy luxury beachfront villas, Faldo-designed golf, award-winning spa and dining, plus Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage, all without leaving the property.”

The packages are open for booking now for stays through March 31, 2027, with a minimum of two guests per booking. Availability is subject to seasonal surcharges.


Atmosphere Core Maldives Unveils Exclusive Wine Experiences for Autumn 2025

Atmosphere Core Maldives Unveils Exclusive Wine Experiences for Autumn 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 13, 2025

Atmosphere Core is inviting guests to sip, savour, and immerse themselves in three extraordinary wine journeys this autumn, where storytelling, gastronomy, and award-winning vintages meet the beauty of island life.

Martín Códax Wine Gala at COLOURS OF OBLU

Returning for its second edition, the Martín Códax Wine Gala celebrates Galicia, Spain, with vibrant beachside gatherings hosted by Paula Lobato, Brand Ambassador for Bodegas Martín Códax. Guests will enjoy the acclaimed Organistrum Albariño, perfectly paired with seafood, during barefoot dinners and sunset soirées.

  • OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO: Aug 31 – Sep 1

  • OBLU SELECT Sangeli: Sep 3 – 4

  • OBLU SELECT Lobigili (Adults-only): Sep 6 – 7

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A Sip of Stellenbosch at RAAYA & VARU by Atmosphere

From August 10 to 16, the celebrated Glenelly Estate of South Africa brings its expressive wines to the Maldives. Founded by Madame May de Lencquesaing, Glenelly fuses French winemaking tradition with South African terroir. Guests will join Cellar Master Dirk van Zyl for guided tastings and curated dinners at:

  • RAAYA by Atmosphere: Aug 10 – 12

  • VARU by Atmosphere: Aug 14 – 16

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A Journey Through the Vines: Bodegas Viñátigo at Bolifushi

This November, OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI will host a rare masterclass with Bodegas Viñátigo of the Canary Islands, known for reviving indigenous grape varieties. Over three evenings, guests will enjoy curated pairings at different dining venues, with wines presented by expert sommeliers.

Bolifushi’s signature wine library, ORIGINƎ CUVEÉ, offers 1,440 bottles across 236 labels, including rarities like Château Margaux 1985 and Château d'Yquem 1996, earning it the titles of Best All-Inclusive Wine List in Asia and Best Spirits List in Asia from the World of Fine Wines Awards.

Atmosphere Core’s wine journeys are part of its ‘Joy of Giving’ philosophy, offering both connoisseurs and curious travellers unforgettable encounters with the world’s finest vintages in a tropical paradise.


Ascott Expands Global Resort Presence with New Signings Across Asia and the Middle East

Ascott Expands Global Resort Presence with New Signings Across Asia and the Middle East

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 12, 2025

The Ascott Limited (Ascott), part of CapitaLand Investment, is making a strong move in the leisure hospitality space, expanding its global resort portfolio to about 50 properties across sought-after destinations. This growth comes through an asset-light approach, with 11 new signings in the past 10 months secured under management and franchise agreements. The signings reflect a strategic focus on the rising demand for experiential travel and contribute to around 5% of Ascott’s portfolio of more than 1,000 properties worldwide.

A key driver of this growth is Ascott’s multi-typology brand strategy, which adapts popular brands such as Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection and The Unlimited Collection for resort settings. This approach allows Ascott to deliver locally attuned guest experiences while meeting the evolving expectations of its expanding Ascott Star Rewards membership.

Recent additions span prime leisure spots in Phuket, Bali, Labuan Bajo, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Cam Ranh, Sam Son, Gangneung and Marjan Island. Highlights include the upcoming Ascott Abov Patong Phuket Resort, the brand’s debut in Phuket, just 150 metres from Patong Beach. The resort will feature 254 rooms, extensive leisure facilities, event spaces and a 227-unit branded residence. In Vietnam, developments include Somerset Nha Trang, Citadines Selavia Phu Quoc, and HARRIS Resort Cam Ranh – each designed with premium amenities for leisure and business travellers alike.

Indonesia will see properties like lyf Labuan Bajo, opening in 2027 with vibrant communal spaces and curated experiences for younger travellers, and Oakwood Jimbaran Villas and Residences Bali, offering direct access to Jimbaran Beach’s famous sunsets and seafood culture. The UAE’s Al Mahra Resort by The Crest Collection on Marjan Island is set to bring luxury stays with 539 rooms, a spa, specialty dining, and event spaces.

South Korea’s Oakwood Gangneung will cater to leisure-led extended stays on the scenic east coast, while other resort additions include ski retreats, beachfront escapes and wellness-led properties across key global markets.

Industry trends suggest a bright outlook for Ascott’s resort strategy. Global leisure travel spending is projected to triple to US$15 trillion by 2040, with strong contributions from emerging markets like India and China. The resort segment, valued at over US$300 billion in 2023, is expected to grow at an 18.2% CAGR through 2030.

According to Ms Serena Lim, Chief Growth Officer, the combination of Ascott’s flexible operational model and brand adaptability positions it to capture these opportunities while delivering value for property owners and memorable stays for guests. Ms Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer, emphasised that the resorts enrich the Ascott Star Rewards programme, creating a deeper connection with members and encouraging cross-destination travel.

With more than 20 new resorts scheduled to open in the next three years, Ascott is cementing its place as a lifestyle hospitality leader in both established and emerging leisure destinations worldwide.

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