Innholdsfortegnelse for November - December - 2025 i Business Traveller Asia-Pacific Edition

WELCOME TO THIS special edition of Business Traveller Asia-Pacific, in which we celebrate our annual Business Traveller Awards. This year they take new form – and new scope. The Global Awards category includes input not only from our readers worldwide but also a panel of expert judges drawn from the fields of travel, hospitality and the media; meanwhile our Asia-Pacific awards were voted for by readers based in the region. An astonishing 95,000-plus people around the world took part, and the response was especially enthusiastic here in Asia. Within these pages you’ll find some thought-provoking results. In the global airlines category, Qatar Airways made it a near clean sweep and won Best Global Airline, raising the bar to unprecedented heights and posing a challenge to the likes of Singapore Airlines.…

AIRLINE EU carry-on laws change AIRLINE Fleet and lounge updates LOUNGE Cathay’s new offering in Beijing TRAVEL Risky business when abroad JO’BURG TAKES TO the world stage this month as the city becomes the host nation for the 20th edition of the G20 summit – the first time the global forum has been held in Africa. World leaders will gather from November 22-23 to tackle a range of socio-economic issues. Priority topics on the agenda range from inclusive economic growth, to food security and artificial intelligence. Johannesburg has excellent global connections, including to Asia Pacific. Singapore Airlines, for instance, flies to the city 12 times a week this autumn, with flights in the small hours and early afternoon. Johannesburg has also seen increased uplift from London in recent months, with…

KOREAN AIR HAS secured its future aircraft requirements with a new order for 103 nextgeneration aircraft from United States-based aircraft manufacturer Boeing. The deal includes 20 additional Boeing 777-9 long-haul aircraft, 25 additional 787-10 Dreamliners, and 50 737 Max 10 aircraft, all scheduled for phased delivery by the end of 2030. Separately, the airline is also adding a large number of new planes from European aircraft maker Airbus, including long-haul A350-900 and A350-1000 types, as well as regional A321neos. In the long run, the Korean flag carrier says it will streamline its fleet and operations around five aircraft families: the 777, 787 and 737 Max jets from Boeing, and the A350 and A321neo jets from Airbus. The new aircraft orders are part of Korean Air’s commitment to a broader passenger…

WHAT'S HOT Personalisation: authentic experiences tailored to the individual Informal and downto-earth vibes: ties are out and trainers are in Intangible value: time, freedom, privacy and wellbeing Meaningful experiences: sustainable, socially conscious escapes WHAT'S NOT Social hierarchy: being seen just to be seen Generic greetings: forget “sir” or “madam”, modern luxury means knowing your name Materialism: gold taps, designer goods and bling no longer cut it Rigid service: politeness without personality…

TIA Wellness Resort: Da Nang, Vietnam A sea-view tea ritual welcomes guests to this resort, and this greeting sets the stage for what’s to come. Creativity workshops are a pillar here; with guided journal activities, travellers can sketch, draw and paint, or jot down words that best illustrate their inner feelings. Other experiences, such as tai chi, help guests leave with all sorts of healthy new habits. tiawellnessresort.com Roki Collection Queenstown, New Zealand The new Roki Collection on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown invites travellers to get back to nature via hiking, water sports and heli-skiing, with ample lounge areas for notetaking with mountain views. The on-site sleep concierge teaches guests to use journalling as a nightly de-stress. roki-collection.com Six Senses Fiji: Malolo Island, Fiji Few backdrops stoke…

SUPPER CLUBS ARE the hottest tables in town. These dinner parties with a twist are now popping up in cities across the globe. Chefs and home cooks are serving curated menus to strangers in pop-up venues or even their own home. For the adventurous business traveller, not only will it beat room service, but you can also get an insight into the city and its people at the same time. Here are six across the globe to whet your appetite. ROSALYNN SUPPER CLUB, LOS ANGELES Ex-tech professional Jasper Lynn loved to host friends for dinner. A pandemic passion project with chef friends turned into the Rosalynn Supper Club. The supper club became so popular he now runs events up to four times a week at different pop-up locations around LA.…

What drew you to fragrance? I’m not a trained nose but I have a natural ability – in fact, I’ve had my nose tested against medical detection dogs and I’m on a par. I’m severely dyslexic and my sense of smell just became my compass in life and would govern my emotions. I also have synaesthesia, so I see colour when I smell. I fell in love with fragrance when eating steak frites with rosé wine in the middle of a flower market in Grasse, France. I’m still in love with it today. I love the ingredients and how you can make the orchestra of orange blossom just sing forever - it’s very poetic for me. Have you ever lost your sense of smell? When I had chemotherapy [Jo was…

WITH MORE THAN 9,000 properties and 1.7 million rooms worldwide, Marriott Bonvoy boasts the largest global footprint among hotel groups, offering travellers extensive lodging options across 36 brands, including The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis and JW Marriott. What can you do with 150,000 points? Quite a lot, actually. One of the programme's standout features is the Stay for 5, Pay for 4 perk, granting a fifth night free when redeeming points. This makes aspirational stays more attainable, such as five nights at The Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur (148,000 points) or Jakarta (120,000 points). In South America, the JW Marriott Quito (120,000 points) and The Westin Lima (136,000 points) offer exceptional value for extended stays in vibrant, culture-rich cities. Earning elite status is also straightforward: Marriott Bonvoy Titanium Elite requires just 35-45 qualifying…

AVIS OPERATES APPROXIMATELY 5,500 locations in 170 countries -so what iconic road trip would you choose to experience in an Avis car? An ideal choice might be Route 66, one of America’s first continuous stretches of highway. The “Mother Road” served as a path for those who migrated to the West and today attracts adventurous drivers from all around the world. Stretching some 2,448 miles (3,940km) to Santa Monica, your Route 66 journey starts at one of ten Avis locations in Chicago. Ponder over a selection of the latest models, ranging from a full-size SUV such as the Ford Expedition to a budget-friendly Kia Rio and an all-American Jeep Wrangler. Avis offers all-electric cars, too, but whatever you choose, be sure that you’re covered on your epic journey to California. The company offers…

CATHAY PACIFIC’S NEW premium economy class, introduced on its Boeing 777-300ER long-haul fleet in 2024, is an award-worthy product for several reasons: it has features more often found in business class, blending comfort, technology and a little bit more privacy to elevate the experience significantly beyond standard economy. The Oneworld member’s latest premium economy comes with upgraded standout technology and entertainment options delivered via 4K HDR screens with Bluetooth. The new 15.6-inch 4K touchscreen TVs are a major improvement and rival some business class offerings out there, delivering exceptional picture quality and an immersive entertainment experience. Moreover, the addition of Bluetooth audio pairing allows premium economy passengers to use their own wireless headphones, a feature previously exclusive to business class on many airlines. Cathay’s inflight entertainment system (IFE), previously recognised…

NOVEMBER 7-10 ITF Taipei International Travel Fair (largest of its kind in Taiwan) TaiNEX 1, Taipei NOVEMBER 21-24 Tainan international Travel Fair (hosted by Tainan Travel Commercial Association) ICC, Tainan NOVEMBER 29-30 World Peace Gathering (conducted mainly in Chinese) KEC, Kaohshiung DECEMBER 4-7 Healthcare+ Expo Taiwan (focus on medtech, biotech and healthtech) TaiNEX 1, Taipei DECEMBER 8-12 IEEE Global Communications Conference (themed "Sustainable Communications for Ubiquitous Intelligence") TICC, Taipei JUNE 2-5, 2026 Computex Taipei (leading global exhibition focused on AIoT and start-ups) TaiNEX, TWTC, TICC, Taipei…

CARMEN JENNER Living in Perth, Australia, Carmen is a freelance travel writer. She also runs the Fluffy Towel Travel blog, for travellers who love fluffy towels as much as their discoveries. On page 27 she takes us on a whistle-stop tour of Kuching, the colourful and exotic capital of Sarawak, Malaysia. STEVE WHITE Steve is a Hong Kong-based journalist and intrepid traveller with more than 25 years’ experience editing and writing for a range of publications in Asia. In this issue he looks at the growing MICE sector in Taiwan, and what that means for its offerings in three of the island’s cities. Turn to page 78 to learn more. STEPHANIE VERMILLION Stephanie, who lives in Cleveland, Ohio, is writer and photographer who specialises in wellness trends and adventure travel;…

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH LONGEVITY CLINICS Living well is one thing, but for the uber rich it’s about living longer, too. A new crop of cutting-edge clinics offer all kinds of medical treatments to extend your years, from cryotherapy to IV drips – all in a five-star setting with fine dining and first-rate facilities. PRIVATE SANCTUARY In an increasingly busy world, achieving true privacy and solitude is a highly prized commodity. Secluded villas, yacht charters and private jets are all rising in popularity, as the 1 per cent splash out to gain some peace and quiet. RESPONSIBLE LUXURY Ultra luxury travellers increasingly want to “give back”, prompting a rise in experiences tied to a worthy cause. For example, the Rise for Rhinos expedition from Journeys With Purpose costs US$17,926 (the price…

Unlock Sarawak's feel-good flavours Sarawak’s laksa is renowned for its aroma and tanginess, so why not elevate your culinary skills and master it yourself with a cooking class at Indah House Kuching? Not only will you shop at markets, cook and eat like a local, but you’ll also be supporting a social enterprise. However, if you’re short on time, you could dine in at the on-site cafe or sample local delicacies such as laksa, kolo mee (noodles and pork) and jungle fern curry on many menus around town, such as the Lau Ya Keng Food Court on Carpenter Street and the James Brooke Bistro and Cafe on Kuching’s waterfront. Living museums Whether you venture to Fort Margherita, built by the second Rajah of Sarawak in 1879, or to the Borneo…

New York’s Walker Hotels offer guests The Algorithms of Life journal – a companion for post-workday reflections. Designed by Ida Carleborn, the journal features pages of prompts to achieve balance and mindfulness. Lifestyle brand Shinola sells products at its 129-room boutique property in Detroit. This sketchbook’s blank pages help artists and creators bring their visions to life. The pages are designed for charcoal, graphite, pastels and more. Pink or green? These two options from The Beverly Hills Hotel pay homage to the property’s iconic colours. After a restful stay at this California hideaway, don’t leave without a journal to enjoy as a memento.…

FOR THE FIRST time, the Business Traveller Awards honour both the finest regional travel brands in Europe and the very best in the world. This year's approach blends the insight of our passionate, informed readers with the expertise of a panel of leading judges. The response was extraordinary, with more than 95,000 votes cast across five territories. Regional winners are drawn from the public vote alone, while the global categories combine public and panel input to determine the ultimate accolades - a rigorous process ensuring every award reflects both traveller sentiment and industry excellence. The full list of winners can be found at businesstraveller.com/awards…

Six reasons to use Booking.com As a full-time travel writer and creator, I'm always on the road and I've racked up over 100 bookings through Booking.comthis year alone. Here are six reasons why it's my go-to travel provider, and tips on how I get the most out of its award-winning app. 1 GENIUS LOYALTY Booking.com's loyalty programme, Genius, offers perks like free breakfast, free upgrades and up to 20 per cent off selected stays. It doesn't require a huge financial commitment, either, as it's based on number of bookings rather than spend. You can start receiving discounts from the moment you join the programme. 2 EVERYTHING IN ONE PLACE Unlike many other apps, with Booking.com you can book everything from hotels and flights to attractions, taxis and rental cars in…

SAMSONITE IS CELEBRATING its 115th anniversary this year, having been founded in 1910 by luggage salesman Jesse Shwayder in Denver as a trunk manufacturer. Did you know that Samsonite’s name was derived from the biblical character Samson to epitomise the strength of its suitcases? Fast-forward to 2025, and the brand is still emphasising strength while embracing elements essential to today’s travellers. In September Samsonite launched Paralux, a seven-piece collection crafted primarily of sustainable materials with features that optimise packing. “This launch represents the best of Samsonite: pioneering design, sustainable innovation and a deep understanding of how people move through the world,” says Kyle Gendreau, CEO of Samsonite. The runners-up in the luggage category shouldn’t surprise any frequent traveller – like Samsonite, each puts an emphasis on durability. Rimowa long has…

NESTLED IN A lush rainforest, The Datai Langkawi has always been close to nature, and in 2020 the resort ramped up its environmental stewardship with The Datai Pledge. Designed to both protect Langkawi Island’s unique ecosystems and support its local communities, it’s a “promise to maintain a deep commitment to our rainforest, our ocean, our wildlife and our people”. Over the past five years, the resort has made remarkable progress in both aims, and demonstrated that luxury and sustainability are compatible and inseparable. Human impact As part of the Pledge, The Datai partnered with local enterprises The Kanshalife Project and Suri Lifestyle. Both initiatives support community members by creating meaningful employment in the form of transforming hotel waste materials such as linens, towels and slippers into new products like stools,…

Asia-Pacific have picked their favourite spots to rest their head in 12 cities across the region, and one in mainland China. While there are no huge surprises, it’s worth noting how well Hyatt Hotels performs, with six out of the 13 winners coming under the brand. And Hong Kong’s Regala Skycity Hotel, for instance, may not be in town, but it benefits both from its location at Hong Kong International Airport and the latter’s fast connections to Central. Best Business Hotel in China: Grand Hyatt Shanghai Best Business Hotel in Hong Kong: Regala Skycity Hotel Best Business Hotel in Taipei: Grand Hyatt Taipei Best Business Hotel in Macau: Grand Hyatt Macau Best Business Hotel in Bangkok: Grand Hyatt Bangkok Best Business Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City: Park Hyatt Saigon…

TECH REVIEW Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 headphones What’s it like? The new Fairmont Tokyo spans the nine highest floors of Tokyo's Blue Front Shibaura Tower South, a gleaming stack of restaurants, shops and offices with views of glittering Tokyo Bay to the east and beaconlike Tokyo Tower to the west. I entered through the side doors - the easiest entrance when arriving from JR Hamamatsucho station - and was immediately welcomed and whisked to the 35th-floor lobby. There, floor-to-ceiling windows showcased some of the finest views in Tokyo (including Mount Fuji on a clear day) and soaring ceilings with sculptural lights and textile art stretched over small knots of well-heeled travellers enjoying afternoon tea. Aside from the panoramas, warm hospitality helps this hotel stand apart from five-star competitors in…

NICARAGUA INVITES TRAVELERS to explore a country rich in nature, culture, and warmth — where every route reveals a new adventure. From the misty highlands of Matagalpa and Jinotega, travelers can immerse themselves in coffee country, hike through cloud forests, and meet the communities that cultivate some of the world’s finest beans. Along the Segoviana Route, artisans, marble carvers, and small towns showcase the charm of Nicaragua’s northern soul. Heading south, the Patrimonial Cities of León and Granada open their colonial doors to cathedrals, museums, and colorful streets alive with music, art, and tradition. Near Lake Cocibolca, visitors can kayak between islets or discover the volcanic wonder of Ometepe Island. Adventure seekers will be drawn to the Route of Volcanoes, home to Masaya and Cerro Negro, where sandboarding and panoramic…

TRAVELLERS FLYING INTO, out of or within Europe could soon enjoy ubiquitous free hand luggage after the European Union voted to ban airlines from charging passengers for their carry-on luggage. This year, EU lawmakers voted in favour of a proposal that would allow air passengers to bring both a personal item and one piece of hand luggage into the cabin free of charge. The proposal would permit items such as handbags, backpacks or laptop bags, with maximum dimensions of 40 x 30 x 15cm, along with one item of hand luggage weighing up to 7kg and measuring up to 100cm. While most of Europe’s major airlines typically allow passengers to bring a personal item and hand luggage on board free of charge on most flights, that’s not the case for…

CATHAY PACIFIC IS now welcoming passengers back to its newly redesigned flagship lounge at Beijing Capital Airport following a complete revamp. The business class lounge offers three distinct dining propositions, including the Noodle Bar – a mainstay of Cathay’s lounges worldwide, where travellers will find staples including wonton and spicy dan dan noodles, but also other regional Chinese specialties. The newly reopened Beijing lounge is open to first, business and Oneworld status passengers. There is no separate first class or Oneworld Emerald section. Alongside the redesigned Beijing lounge, Cathay Pacific also operates two other lounges in mainland China – an airport lounge at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, as well as its first-ever ferry port lounge at the Shekou port in Shenzhen for intermodal travellers. In Hong Kong, the Oneworld member…

Wink Hotels has made its debut in northern Vietnam with the opening of Wink Hotel Hai Phong. Centrally located at 135 Dien Bien Phu, the group says it brings together smart design, digital convenience and 24/7 flexibility. It is just 15 minutes from the airport and ideally placed for exploring the city. The property has 225 rooms and 77 Wink Live 1- and 2-bedroom suites and serviced residences. Guests benefit from the group’s Stay24 concept – where check-in time equals check-out time for true 24-hour stays. wink-hotels.com…

79% engage in behaviours on a work trip they wouldn’t practise back home 18% have ventured out without informing anyone of their itinerary or location 16% happily ride a motorbike, electric scooter or e-bike while away 15% ignore health precautions, such as not drinking the local tap water or eating from a street-food stall 15% of those aged 18-34 admit they gamble or take drugs on work trips (compared to 8% over the age of 55) 22% of those aged 18-34 have got into a car with a new friend or complete stranger…

An ultra-high-net-worth individual is defined as a person with at least US$30 million in assets, which can span cash, stocks, real estate and liquid assets. This group makes up less than 1% of the world’s population, but control more than half the world’s wealth. According to Knight Frank’s 2025 Wealth Report there were 626,619 UHNWIs in the world in 2024 – a 33.4% increase over five years. The US remains home to the most UHNWIs, with rapidly rising numbers in the Middle East, Asia-Pacific and Africa. Sectors yielding the highest super earners include prime real estate, technology (including bitcoin) and manufacturing. While Boomers still comprise the majority of UHNWIs, the shift to a younger demographic is increasing.…

KUCHING HAS ESTABLISHED ITSELF as an excellent MICE destination, but convention facilities are just the start of your unforgettable stay. For those looking to enhance their trip further, this city offers a compact yet rewarding itinerary, ideal for timepressed delegates. Many of these natural gems lie within the Sarawak Delta Geopark, a vast area that spans Kuching and its surrounding regions. Recently awarded the Green Card by the UNESCO Global Geoparks Council in Temuco, Chile, this is a must-visit for those looking to unwind after the business day is done. MYSTICAL ADVENTURES Thirty minutes from Kuching, Wind Cave & Fairy Cave Nature Reserve showcases the dramatic limestone landscape that defines this part of Sarawak. At Wind Cave, a wooden plank walk leads visitors through cool chambers adorned with ancient stalactites…

MOST OF US have grown out of crayons, glue sticks and writing down “what I did at the weekend”, but there is one school supply that could do wonders for your mental health: a journal. Putting pen to paper is one of the best ways to tap into your intuition – something I’ve learned over almost five years of daily journalling. This morning ritual helps me mute external chatter and reflect on everything from my career to life in general. “Journalling is a form of mindfulness,” says Ciara Bogdanovic, owner of Sagebrush Psychotherapy in Los Angeles. “It invites you to slow down, notice your internal experience, and engage with it intentionally.” Journalling can bring “order to emotional chaos,” she adds. It’s no wonder, then, that the practice is growing in…

WHEN NAT PIEPER stepped into the role of Oneworld CEO in 2024, he did so with one clear goal: to steer the world’s smallest global airline alliance into a bold new era defined by premium service, digital sophistication and collaborative scale. Now, over a year into the role, Pieper is reshaping how the alliance’s 15 member airlines work together to offer travellers a seamless, elevated experience across both continents and time zones. "My first 60 days were a sprint," Pieper told Business Traveller in Delhi during the IATA AGM 2025, where Oneworld's governing board of airline CEOs was set to convene and lay the groundwork for the upcoming year. “When we met in Dubai last year, I had to present to the CEOs of our 13 members. That was the…

AS THE PHILIPPINES PREPARES TO CHAIR ASEAN IN 2026, its investment momentum is already making waves. With the Board of Investments (BOI) at the helm, the country is fast becoming a prime destination for global businesses seeking sustainable, highimpact opportunities in Southeast Asia. The BOI is facilitating a steady stream of strategic investments – from renewable energy and healthcare, to high-tech agriculture and advanced manufacturing. RENEWABLE ENERGY LEADERSHIP The Philippines’ decision to open its renewable energy sector to full foreign ownership in 2022 has unlocked significant investments. Since then, around 20 gigawatts (GW) of new clean power capacity have been installed. With strong private sector participation, the country is steadily moving toward its goal of 35 per cent renewables in the power mix by 2030, up from 22 per cent…

BOWERS & WILKINS PX8 S2 noise-cancelling headphones were released this autumn as an update to the company's Px8 flagship model. My set arrived in a largish box that set the mental alarm bells ringing. In the event, the packaging proved to be the minimalist, white cardboard art favoured by the likes of Apple: the case was a reasonable 23x17x6cm. Of course, those looking for a small audio device for travelling light may opt for ear buds, but they won't deliver anything approaching the stellar sound delivered by these cans. More on that later. Much has changed with this upgrade to the Px8 product; on the whole they look much the same but are slimmer than the original; the new ones come in diecast aluminium and Napa leather that renders them…