S Hotels & Resorts Joins Global Hotel Alliance, Unlocking World-Class Benefits for Travellers

S Hotels & Resorts Joins Global Hotel Alliance, Unlocking World-Class Benefits for Travellers

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 17, 2025

S Hotels & Resorts, the international hospitality arm of Singha Estate, has joined hands with Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), becoming part of the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme, a renowned network of 45 independent hotel brands and 850 properties across 100 countries.

Starting July 2025, guests at SAii Laguna Phuket, SAii Phi Phi Island Village, SAii Koh Samui Villas, and Santiburi Koh Samui can experience the new SAii DISCOVERY programme, a local extension of the global GHA DISCOVERY platform. Members will enjoy perks like instant savings, complimentary room upgrades, early check-in, late check-out, and access to exclusive Local Experiences that connect them more meaningfully with their destination.

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This strategic alliance allows SHR properties to tap into a global base of 30 million loyalty members, increasing visibility, direct bookings, and access to data-driven guest insights. The collaboration also unlocks cutting-edge CRM and marketing tools under a shared platform.

The partnership aligns with S Hotels & Resorts’ sustainable ethos. Notably, SAii Laguna Phuket, SAii Phi Phi Island Village, and Santiburi Koh Samui are members of the GHA Green Collection, which features properties committed to reducing environmental impact and supporting local communities through eco-conscious operations.

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Michael Marshall, CEO of S Hotels & Resorts, shared, “Our inclusion in GHA DISCOVERY creates exciting new possibilities for both our guests and our brand. From better insights into guest preferences to higher direct revenue, it’s a win-win. Our guests gain access to DISCOVERY Dollars (D$) to redeem on stays, experiences, wellness, and dining across the GHA network.”

He added, “With just one app, travellers can explore 850 properties in 100 countries. The platform offers unmatched flexibility, personalised service, and member exclusives, making every trip more rewarding.”

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Chris Hartley, CEO of Global Hotel Alliance, welcomed the addition warmly: “We are thrilled to bring S Hotels & Resorts into the fold. The SAii and Santiburi properties add richness to our collection and reflect our shared commitment to sustainability, cultural immersion, and authentic guest experiences. We look forward to connecting these beautiful resorts with our global community.”

The partnership blends responsible travel, seamless digital convenience, and personalised hospitality, giving SAii DISCOVERY members the chance to enjoy global rewards while staying rooted in local charm.


Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor Hosts New Exhibition Featuring Leading Khmer Artists

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor Hosts New Exhibition Featuring Leading Khmer Artists

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 5, 2025

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, the iconic 93-year-old luxury retreat near Cambodia’s ancient Angkor sites, has launched a new art exhibition titled “Harmony.” The show highlights the works of two of Cambodia’s most prominent contemporary artists, Morn Chear and Nak Noy, both natives of Siem Reap.

Curated by Nat Di Maggio from Tribe Art Gallery, the exhibition captures the intricate beauty of Cambodia’s natural environment through vivid depictions of birds, elephants, fish, and other wildlife. Beyond artistic expression, these creatures serve as symbols of Khmer heritage, folklore, and everyday life. At a time when environmental concerns are more pressing than ever, “Harmony” invites viewers to reflect on the importance of preserving nature for future generations.

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The exhibition is on display in the hotel’s elegant public spaces, and guests can also enjoy private guided tours led by the resident artists. Running through September, this initiative is part of the hotel’s ongoing cultural series, which began earlier this year with a showcase by renowned Khmer painter Channy Chhoeun.

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Opened in 1932 as a haven for explorers and archeologists visiting Angkor Wat, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor continues to celebrate Cambodia’s rich heritage. Its ‘Curated Journeys’ and in-house ‘Resort Programme’ offer immersive experiences that connect guests with local culture and traditions.

Adding to its legacy, the hotel was recently named one of the world’s ‘500 Best Hotels’ by Travel + Leisure for the fourth year in a row.


Sarovar Hotels Debuts in Nepal with Royal Tulip Chitwan

Sarovar Hotels Debuts in Nepal with Royal Tulip Chitwan

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 4, 2025

Sarovar Hotels, the Indian arm of Louvre Hotels Group, has launched its premium Royal Tulip brand in Nepal with the grand opening of Royal Tulip Chitwan. Developed by KTM Hospitality, a subsidiary of KTM Group Holdings, the resort is located near the renowned Chitwan National Park and spans 4 acres of lush landscape.

Royal Tulip Chitwan features 65 well-designed rooms and villas, including Pool Villas, Water Villas, and unique Machan accommodations. Each space is crafted to offer guests a luxurious and immersive experience with sweeping views of nature. The resort also includes a spa, fitness center, swimming pool, and an array of dining options, such as Majhighar, Forest Flame, the revolving deck Machan, and the lively Tanavi Sports Bar.

Ajay K. Bakaya, chairman of Sarovar Hotels and director of Louvre Hotels India, said, “Nepal is fast emerging as a preferred destination for both Indian and international travelers. We are thrilled to introduce the Royal Tulip brand in this beautiful country with a resort that offers a seamless blend of luxury, adventure, and local culture.”

Rameshwar Shah, chairman of KTM Hospitality, added, “Royal Tulip Chitwan, a place covered by nature where the wild watches over you, is our tribute to the natural beauty and cultural richness of Nepal. This resort is more than just a hospitality project, it is our commitment to enhancing the region’s tourism appeal, creating local employment opportunities, and setting a new benchmark for luxury in Chitwan.”

With this strategic launch, Louvre Hotels Group continues to grow its footprint in South Asia, reaffirming its focus on expanding into high-potential tourism destinations. Royal Tulip Chitwan is expected to become a preferred retreat for travelers seeking serenity, wildlife, and refined hospitality in the heart of Nepal.


Taiwan Sees Over 30% Growth in Indian Tourists from January to May 2025

Taiwan Sees Over 30% Growth in Indian Tourists from January to May 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 3, 2025

Taiwan has recorded a 30.73% rise in Indian tourist arrivals during the January to May 2025 period, with a total of 19,202 visitors. This growth reflects a significant recovery and rising interest among Indian travellers following the country’s renewed focus on India as a key tourism source market.

The momentum comes on the heels of Taiwan Tourism Administration’s (TTA) post-pandemic re-entry into the Indian market in early 2024. With a 360-degree promotional strategy in place, TTA has been rolling out campaigns targeting niche segments such as golf tourism and wellness travel, along with outreach programs in East India.

In 2024, Taiwan welcomed 38,158 Indian tourists, showing a 20.81% increase over 2023 figures. This growth rate significantly outpaced the overall Indian outbound travel growth of 8.44%, placing Taiwan’s numbers at nearly 2.5 times the average.

Paul Shih, Director of the TTA Singapore Office, said, “We are very bullish about India’s outbound tourism potential for us. Over the last one and a half years, we have worked extensively and hard to build strong tourism ties with India’s ever-growing outbound tourism market, particularly focusing on strengthening partnerships with the Indian trade.”

As part of the global "Taiwan – Waves of Wonder" campaign, TTA has been promoting luxury and golf experiences tailored to Indian high-net-worth travellers. Recent efforts have included roadshows in cities like Kolkata, aimed at East India’s growing travel market.

By partnering with golf tour operators, OTAs, and luxury travel providers, TTA is offering curated experiences that combine golf, spa, culinary, and wellness offerings to attract Indian travellers. India has now emerged as Taiwan’s top South Asian source market both in terms of visitor numbers and travel spending.

TTA plans to continue its investments in both trade partnerships and consumer campaigns to strengthen Taiwan’s presence as a premium and accessible destination for Indian tourists.

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