TMS APAC 2025 Marks Growth and Impact

The Meetings Show Asia Pacific 2025 Achieves Major Growth and Strong Industry Impact

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 22, 2025

The Meetings Show Asia Pacific 2025 (TMS APAC) concluded with significant success in Singapore, further strengthening its reputation as a key event for the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) sector. Held on 16–17 April 2025 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre, the show attracted 1,773 attendees from over 72 countries, reflecting a 35% growth compared to its inaugural edition.

The event featured a vibrant show floor with nearly 300 exhibitors, a robust Hosted Buyer Programme, and more than 30 hours of educational sessions focused on emerging trends, technology, sustainability, and workforce development. Over 8,000 scheduled appointments were completed during the two-day event, enhancing business opportunities for participants.

TMS APAC 2025 was co-located with the inaugural Business Travel Show Asia Pacific (BTS APAC), creating an expanded platform for corporate travel professionals, senior buyers, and leading suppliers. A dynamic lion dance performance opened the event, symbolising prosperity and growth for the region’s MICE and business travel sectors.

Jason Young, CEO of Northstar Travel Group, shared the company's vision during the opening ceremony: “Travel brings communities together and makes business happen, that's why we are here this week. We couldn't be more bullish and excited about the opportunity that TMS APAC brings.”

Guest-of-Honour Ong Huey Hong, Assistant Chief Executive of the Industry Development Group and Chief Sustainability Officer at the Singapore Tourism Board, expressed optimism about the sector's future. She stated, “The co-location of TMS APAC and BTS APAC will form a stronger gateway to quality connections and insightful sessions. Singapore aims to triple our MICE tourism receipts by 2040, and we are committed to supporting this growth.”

Exhibitors and buyers praised the event’s organisation, quality of connections, and relevance of content. Amelia Roziman, CEO of Business Events Sarawak, noted, “TMS APAC has proven to be the ideal anchor platform to position Sarawak as the legacy capital for business events in Borneo and Malaysia.”

Vincent U, President of the Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute (IPIM) of Macao, emphasised the opportunity to amplify Macao’s global presence: “At TMS APAC, Macao isn't just participating, we are co-writing the future of Asia-Pacific's MICE landscape.”

First-time attendees like Yelle Dela Cruz, Meeting and Event Planner at Alliances Management, shared positive experiences: “It’s like a one-stop shop. The convenience of having all destinations we are exploring, such as Singapore, Korea, Thailand, and Malaysia, represented here is unmatched.”

Participants also appreciated the educational sessions. Harry Foo, Event Director at Evo Communications, remarked, “The content at TMS APAC, especially around AI’s application in MICE, was practical and insightful.”

Industry professionals noted the event’s growing prestige. Vincent Tham, Director of D’Event Tree, observed, “In a short span, TMS APAC has overtaken many MICE and travel trade shows in Singapore and beyond, emerging as one of the top business travel shows in Asia Pacific.”

Adding to the enthusiasm, Ferron Gray, President of Grae Matta Foundation, called TMS APAC “an absolute powerhouse of a show.”

Building on this strong momentum, TMS APAC will return to Singapore on 14–15 April 2026 at Sands Expo & Convention Centre, promising another dynamic edition for the global MICE community.

Industry professionals can already register their interest at: https://www.themeetingsshowapac.com/register-your-interest.

TOKYO SKYTREE Brings Cherry Blossom Season to New Heights with “THE Sakura SKYTREE”

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 25, 2026

As Japan gears up for its much-awaited cherry blossom season, Tobu Tower Skytree Co., Ltd. has announced a special spring programme titled “THE Sakura SKYTREE – Going to Meet the Cherry Blossoms Above the Clouds” at TOKYO SKYTREE. The limited-period experience will run from February 26 to April 14, 2026, offering visitors a fresh way to enjoy sakura from 350 metres above ground.

Designed as an alternative to traditional park hanami, the event brings cherry blossom viewing into an urban, elevated setting. Located on the Tembo Deck at Floors 350 and 340, the experience blends sakura-inspired installations with wide, uninterrupted views of Tokyo, allowing visitors to enjoy spring scenery from above the city skyline.

Built around the theme “Sky × Sakura,” the Tembo Deck will be transformed with cherry blossom décor and Japanese-style photo installations. The setting reflects the fleeting beauty of sakura while creating striking visual moments for visitors. With the Tokyo skyline as a backdrop, the space offers a modern interpretation of spring that combines tradition with a sense of scale and spectacle.

For evening visitors, a key attraction will be the seasonal showcase at the SKYTREE ROUND THEATER® on Floor 350. The observatory’s large windows will turn into a panoramic screen for a three-minute visual presentation capturing the delicate and short-lived nature of cherry blossoms. Using 24 projectors and surround sound from 13 speakers, the experience adds a cinematic layer to hanami, bringing together culture, technology, and storytelling.

Adding to the seasonal feel, the SKYTREE CAFE on Floor 350 will launch a limited-edition cherry blossom-themed menu. The offerings will include both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, along with spring-inspired sweets. Highlights include donuts in “Sakura Mochi” and “Sakura Sky Vanilla” flavours, made as 100% plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free options. The menu is designed to be visually appealing and easy to share, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

The spring theme will also extend to the W1SH RIBBON monument on the Tembo Deck, where limited-edition pink ribbons will be available during the event period. Visitors can tie their wishes onto the softly lit pink installation, reflecting themes of renewal and fresh beginnings associated with the season. The monument lighting will also shift to pink to match the overall décor.

On selected evenings, TOKYO SKYTREE itself will light up in special spring illumination called “Sakura SKY (Sakura-Sora).” Inspired by cherry blossoms set against a spring sky, gentle pink beams will represent petals floating in the wind, turning the tower into a seasonal highlight visible across the city.

With immersive décor, visual storytelling, seasonal food, and special lighting, “THE Sakura SKYTREE” positions TOKYO SKYTREE as a standout attraction during spring. By presenting the cherry blossom season from 350 metres above ground, the event offers visitors an experience that feels modern, memorable, and uniquely Tokyo.

Chef Bobby Appointed Sous Chef at TIYA in San Francisco

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 25, 2026

TIYA, a Michelin Guide-recognized restaurant, has announced the appointment of Chef Bobby as its new Sous Chef. The move underlines the restaurant’s continued focus on quality, innovation, and refined modern Indian cuisine in the heart of San Francisco.

In his new role, Chef Bobby will oversee day-to-day kitchen operations at TIYA. His responsibilities include ensuring smooth service, refined plating presentation, well-balanced flavours, and consistent portion control. Through his leadership, the restaurant aims to further strengthen its position as a premium modern Indian dining destination known for creativity, precision, and memorable guest experiences.

Before joining TIYA, Chef Bobby worked as Sous Chef at Madras Group Inc., located at 1177 W El Camino Real, Sunnyvale. There, he supported the Executive Chef in running high-performing kitchen operations. His role included supervising and training culinary teams, maintaining HACCP and ServSafe food safety standards, handling inventory and supplier coordination, and contributing to cost control and menu innovation. His involvement in recipe development and tasting menu execution played a key role in maintaining high dining standards.

Earlier in his career, Chef Bobby gained valuable experience as a Demi Chef de Partie at The Quorum, Two Horizon Center, Golf Course Road, and as a Commi at Hotel Crowne Plaza Mayur Vihar. He began his professional journey at Aamod Resorts, Kandaghat, District Solan, Himachal Pradesh, where he built a strong foundation in kitchen operations and hospitality discipline.

Speaking on his appointment, Chef Bobby said, “Joining TIYA, a Michelin Guide restaurant, as Sous Chef is an exciting milestone in my culinary journey. The brand’s vision of redefining modern Indian cuisine resonates deeply with my passion for innovation and excellence. I look forward to contributing to TIYA’s continued growth and delivering memorable dining experiences to our guests.”

With experience across well-known hospitality brands in both India and the United States, Chef Bobby’s appointment marks a meaningful step forward for TIYA as it continues to raise the bar for modern Indian fine dining in San Francisco.

Unwind in the Sacred Spirit of Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport

By Hariharan U

Published on February 24, 2026

As the holy month of Ramadan begins, Novotel Cairo Airport welcomes guests to experience the season in an atmosphere defined by serenity, reflection, and heartfelt hospitality. Designed for both Cairo residents seeking a peaceful retreat within the city and travellers exploring Egypt’s capital, the hotel offers a setting where the spirit of togetherness takes centre stage.

Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport focuses on creating meaningful moments. Guests can slow down, reconnect, and embrace the traditions of the holy month while enjoying a comfortable and relaxing stay. The property’s dining venues present thoughtfully curated Iftar and Sohour experiences, blending traditional Ramadan flavours with contemporary touches. Each meal is crafted to bring families, friends, couples, and colleagues together around the table in celebration.

For corporate guests, the hotel provides fully equipped banquet rooms and dedicated facilities suited for Iftars, Sohour gatherings, and Ramadan celebrations. The spaces are designed to encourage connection and appreciation, offering organisations a welcoming environment to host teams and partners during the blessed month.

A highlight of the season is the exclusive Ramadan dessert display, available throughout the day. Guests can indulge in a carefully selected assortment of oriental pastries, featuring both classic favourites and delicately crafted treats that reflect the flavours of Ramadan. Whether enjoyed on-site or taken home to share, the sweet offerings add a festive touch to the experience.

More than a destination to stay or dine, Novotel Cairo Airport positions itself as a place where Cairo’s Ramadan evenings come alive with warmth and community spirit. It is a space to unwind after a long day of fasting, reflect on the blessings of the season, and create lasting memories.

Part of the global Accor portfolio, Novotel operates over 590 hotels across more than 65 countries and participates in the ALL – Accor Live Limitless lifestyle loyalty programme, offering members access to rewards and exclusive experiences worldwide.

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The Meetings Show Asia Pacific 2025 Achieves Major Growth and Strong Industry Impact

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TOKYO SKYTREE Brings Cherry Blossom Season to New Heights with “THE Sakura SKYTREE”

Most Read In News

Chef Bobby Appointed Sous Chef at TIYA in San Francisco

Most Read In News

Unwind in the Sacred Spirit of Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport

Most Read In News